Furniture system

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/661,185, filed Sep. 13, 2000, entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,629,386, which is a continuation of commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/384,185, filed Aug. 27, 1999, entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,170,200, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/174,661, filed Oct. 19, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,003,275, entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/881,802, filed Jun. 24, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,134,844, entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM, which is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/450,255, filed May 25, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,778 entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/774,563, filed Oct. 8, 1991, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,511,348 entitled FURNITURE SYSTEM, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/480,219, filed Feb. 14, 1990, entitled PARTITION ARRANGEMENT DESIGN, abandoned, each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to furnishings, and in particular to a furniture system that is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like.

Open office plans are well known in the art, and generally comprise large, open floor spaces in a building that is furnished in a manner that is readily reconfigurable to accommodate the ever changing needs of a specific user, as well as the divergent requirements of different tenants. One arrangement typically used for furnishing open plans includes movable partition panels that are detachably interconnected to partition off the open space into individual workstations and/or offices. Some such partition panels are configured to receive hang-on furniture unit, such as worksurfaces, overhead cabinets, shelves, etc., and are generally known in the office furniture industry as “systems furniture.” Another arrangement for dividing and/or partitioning open plans includes modular furniture arrangements, in which a plurality of differently shaped, freestanding furniture units are interconnected in a side-by-side relationship, with upstanding privacy screens attached to at least some of the furniture units to create individual, distinct workstations and/or offices.

Such prior art partitioning arrangements create relatively permanent, multi-function workstations for the users, which workstations are required to support both individual work activities, as well as some types of group activities, such as inter-office conferences, and the like. However, these types of conventional workstation arrangements are not particularly adapted to support workers engaged in group work, such as self-managing teams, or others involved in team problem solving techniques, wherein a relatively large number of workers from different disciplines, such as engineering, design, manufacturing, sales, marketing, purchasing, finance, etc., meet together as a group to define and review issues, and set general policy, and then break out into a number of smaller sub-groups or individuals to resolve those specific problems relating to their particular discipline. Team projects typically have a rather specific objective and are of a limited duration, such that the individual workers are temporarily assigned to the group for the life of the project, and are then reassigned to a new group when the project is completed. Group work is steadily gaining importance as a way of improving productivity and time-to-market, thereby emphasizing the need to support such activities more efficiently and effectively.

Conventional conference rooms, meeting halls, and the like have heretofore been required to handle such group meetings, but are typically expensive to construct and maintain, and are not usually considered an efficient use of space in open plan environments. When such conventional rooms are constructed in rented office space, they become permanent leasehold improvements, which must be depreciated over a lengthy time period, and cannot be readily moved upon the expiration of the lease. The reconfiguration of such spaces is quite messy, and very disruptive to conducting day-to-day business. Furthermore, with conventional conference room arrangements, breakout meetings among the various sub-groups of workers often prove inconvenient, since the workstations of the participant workers are seldom located in close proximity to the conference room.

Another objective of furnishings for modern office environments is to promote the establishment of an optimum balance between worker privacy and worker interaction. Throughout a given workday, an office worker normally oscillates between interaction with others and time spent alone. Each such worker actively seeks out or avoids others based upon their ever changing tasks, objectives, and goals. Furnishings can serve to help these workers better regulate involvement with or isolation from coworkers. For example, full height offices are known for privacy. Their surrounding walls and door provide privacy by consistently controlling unwanted distractions, but often limit opportunities for spontaneous interaction. On the other hand, open offices precipitate an awareness of coworkers. Furniture and partition based workstations encourage participation and convenient access, but often lack sufficient controls for individual quiet work. Both private workspace, and convenient access to coworkers for the completion of work involving group or team efforts are quite important to the overall success of such projects.

The use of displays to communicate information to large groups in office environments and the like, is also generally well-known, and includes such devices as marker boards, tackable surfaces, electronic displays, reflective projector screens, etc. Such displays are normally incorporated into conventional style conference rooms, meeting halls, and other similar facilities. However, as previously noted, such conventional meeting spaces are typically expensive, and are not usually considered a cost effective use of floor space in most modern offices. Rather, modern office layouts are typically of the open plan type, and do not include large, conventional types of conference rooms.

Information displays in modern, open plan workstations, such as those created by movable partition panels, modular furniture, or the like, are usually quite limited, and not particularly adapted to support workers engaged in group or team problem solving techniques. Due to the inherent nature of group problem solving techniques, the effective display of information is quite important to the effective management of the team's human resources.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention is to provide a furniture system comprising a plurality of support columns and a plurality of beam assemblies. The plurality of support columns each have a lower portion thereof for abutting a floor surface of an associated building room. Each support column comprises at least two vertically extending panels defining an outside peripheral surface of the support columns. The plurality of beam assemblies are configured to be positioned above an open floor surface of the associated building room, with each beam assembly being disposed in a generally horizontal orientation. At least one of the beam assemblies is connected to two of the columns. The at least one of the beam assemblies includes a vertical web defining at least two side facing openings and an upwardly facing top opening. The at least one of the beam assemblies includes a top beam member connected to a top portion of the vertical web and defines the upwardly facing top opening and an upper portion of the vertical web. The top beam member comprises a horizontal plate located above the vertical web and a plate extending upwardly from each end of the horizontal plate.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a furniture system comprising a plurality of support columns and a plurality of beam assemblies. The plurality of support columns each have a lower portion thereof for abutting a floor surface of an associated building room. Each support column comprises at least two vertically extending panels defining an outside peripheral surface of the support columns. The plurality of beam assemblies are configured to be positioned above an open floor surface of the associated building room, with each beam assembly being disposed in a generally horizontal orientation. At least one of the beam assemblies is connected to two of the columns. The at least one of the beam assemblies includes a vertical web defining at least two side facing openings and an upwardly facing top opening. A bottom of the vertical web of the at least one of the beam assemblies includes a flange extending at least outwardly and upwardly.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a furniture system comprising a plurality of support columns and a plurality of beam assemblies. The plurality of support columns each have a lower portion thereof for abutting a floor surface of an associated building room. Each support column comprises at least two vertically extending panels defining an outside peripheral surface of the support columns. The plurality of beam assemblies are configured to be positioned above an open floor surface of the associated building room, with each beam assembly being disposed in a generally horizontal orientation. At least one of the beam assemblies is connected to two of the columns. The at least one of the beam assemblies includes a vertical web defining at least two side facing openings and an upwardly facing top opening. The at least one of the beam assemblies is comprised of a bottom beam member defining a lower portion of the vertical web and a lower portion of the at least two side facing openings, and a top beam member defining an upper portion of the vertical web, an upper portion of the at least two side facing openings and the upwardly facing top opening.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, a furniture system is provided. The furniture system comprises a plurality of support columns, a plurality of beam assemblies and a foot assembly. The plurality of support columns each have a lower portion thereof for abutting a floor surface of an associated building room. Each support column comprises at least two vertically extending panels defining an outside peripheral surface of the support columns. The plurality of beam assemblies are configured to be positioned above an open floor surface of the associated building room, with each beam assembly being disposed in a generally horizontal orientation. At least one of the beam assemblies is connected to two of the columns. The at least one of the beam assemblies includes a vertical web defining at least two side facing openings and an upwardly facing top opening. The foot assembly supports at least one of the support columns, with the foot assembly including a foot base and a foot base plate. A leveling screw connected to the at least one of the support columns rests on a portion of the foot assembly.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a furniture system comprising a plurality of support columns and a plurality of beam assemblies. The plurality of support columns each have a lower portion thereof for abutting a floor surface of an associated building room. Each support column comprises at least two vertically extending panels defining an outside peripheral surface of the support columns. The plurality of beam assemblies are configured to be positioned above an open floor surface of the associated building room. Each beam assembly being disposed in a generally horizontal orientation. At least one of the beam assemblies is connected to two of the columns. The at least one of the beam assemblies includes a vertical web defining at least two side facing openings and an upwardly facing top opening. The at least one of the beam assemblies includes a top beam member connected to a top portion of the vertical web and defining the upwardly facing top opening and an upper portion of the vertical web, the top beam member comprising a horizontal plate located above the vertical web and a plate extending upwardly from each end of the horizontal plate. A bottom of the vertical web of the at least one of the beam assemblies includes a flange extending at least outwardly and upwardly. The at least one of the beam assemblies is comprised of a bottom beam member defining a lower portion of the vertical web and a lower portion of the at least two side facing openings, and a top beam member defining an upper portion of the vertical web, an upper portion of the at least two side facing openings and the upwardly facing top opening. A foot assembly supports at least one of the support columns. The foot assembly includes a foot base and a foot base plate. A leveling screw connected to the at least one of the support columns rests on a portion of the foot assembly.

The principal objects of the present invention are to provide a furniture system which is particularly adapted to effectively and efficiently support group work activities in open plans, and the like. An overhead framework and column arrangement supports the system freestanding on the floor of a building, such that the system is completely portable, and can be moved about a selected location. The overhead framework and columns preferably have a knock-down type of construction to facilitate disassembly and reassembly at new locations. The overall shape of the furniture system can be varied to mate with the architectural layout of the building room in which the furniture system is erected and used, and is particularly adapted to be temporarily deployed for team or group problem solving projects. Panels that are detachably hung from the overhead framework can be easily reconfigured to accommodate both communal and breakout-type activities. The panels may be provided with acoustic and/or display capabilities to further assist in group problem solving activities. Both power and signal capabilities are routed throughout the overhead framework and the columns to support electronic equipment, such as lighting, computers, communication devices and the like. Both the overhead framework and the columns may be provided with removable covers to vary the exterior appearance of the system. Mobile carts assist in the temporary storage and/or transport of the panels, and can also serve as portable partitions and/or displays. Detachable connectors on the panels have an uncomplicated design that securely mount the same on either straight or curved sections of the framework, yet permit easy movement and removal of the panels, as well as reattachment by even unskilled personnel in a quick and efficient manner. Panels with display capabilities can be composed and retained outside of the furniture system for information storage and retrieval. The furniture system is extremely flexible and dynamic to meet the ever changing needs of various users, is economical to manufacture, capable of a long operating life, and particularly well adapted for the proposed use.

These and other features, advantages and objects of the present invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of a furniture system embodying the present invention, shown deployed in an open office plan, with removable panels arranged to define a large, group workspace.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective view of the furniture system shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, wherein the panels have been rearranged to define two, smaller, sub-group workspaces for breakout-type activities.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a perspective view of the furniture system, taken from a generally eye level elevation.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a perspective view of a column portion of the furniture system.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of the column.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a top plan view of an inner core portion of the column.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a top plan view of the column, shown with one side cover thereof, and one channel cover thereof exploded away to reveal internal construction.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a fragmentary, side elevational view of the interior side of the column cover.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a top plan view of the column.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of a foot portion of the column.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a fragmentary, side elevational view of the column foot.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of the column foot.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of a top portion of the column.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is a fragmentary, side elevational view of the column top.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of the column top.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of the furniture system, showing connectors attaching beam segments of an overhead framework to the columns.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a fragmentary, horizontal cross-sectional view of a perimeter beam segment, taken along the line XVII—XVII, FIG. <b>19</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of a cover for the perimeter beam segment.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of the perimeter beam segment, shown with the cover installed on one side thereof.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> is a fragmentary, top plan view of the perimeter frame segment.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> is a fragmentary, side elevational view of the perimeter frame segment, shown with the cover installed thereon, and wherein a portion of the cover has been broken away to reveal internal construction.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of a cover for a cross beam segment of the overhead framework.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of the cross beam segment, shown with the cover installed on one side thereof.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> is a fragmentary, side elevational view of the cross beam segment, shown with the cover installed thereon, and wherein a portion of the cover is broken away to reveal internal construction.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref> is a perspective view of an in-line connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of the in-line connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> is a fragmentary, top plan view of an in-line connection between adjacent perimeter beam segments.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref> is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of the in-line connection illustrated in FIG. <b>27</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28A</figref> is a fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of the in-line connection illustrated in FIG. <b>28</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref> is a side elevational view of the in-line connection shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref>, with the beam covers removed.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref> is a top plan view of the in-line connection illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref>, with portions thereof broken away to reveal internal construction.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> is a perspective view of a T-connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref> is a top plan view of a T-connection between two perimeter beam segments, and an associated cross beam segment.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref> is a side elevational view of the T-connection shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>, taken from an exterior side of the furniture system.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of the T-connection, taken along the line XXXIV—XXXIV, FIG. <b>32</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of the T-connection, taken along the line XXXIV—XXXIV, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>, with the beam covers removed.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref> is a top plan view of the T-connection illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>, with portions thereof broken away to reveal internal construction.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref> is a perspective view of an X-connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of the X-connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38A</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of an upper weldment portion of the X-connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38B</figref> is an exploded, perspective view of a lower weldment portion of the X-connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref> is a top plan view of an X-connection between the interior ends of four adjacent cross-beam segments.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 40</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of the X-connection, taken along the line of XXXIX—XXXIX, FIG. <b>39</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of the X-connection, taken along the line XXXIX—XXXIX, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref>, with the beam covers removed.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 42</figref> is a top plan view of the X-connection illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref>, wherein portions thereof have been broken away to reveal internal construction.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43</figref> is a perspective view of a panel.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43A</figref> is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the panel shown in FIG. <b>43</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43B</figref> is a front elevational view of a panel connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43C</figref> is a side elevational view of the panel connector.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 44</figref> is a fragmentary, side-elevational view of the furniture system, showing a panel hung from an associated perimeter beam segment.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 44A</figref> is a fragmentary, horizontal cross-sectional view of a perimeter beam segment illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43</figref>, showing a panel hanging from an arcuate rail portion thereof.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 45</figref> is a fragmentary, horizontal cross-sectional view of a cross beam frame segment, showing a panel hanging from a straight rail portion thereof.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 46</figref> is a fragmentary, side elevational view of a panel supported on the rail of one of the beam segments.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 47</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of the panel and beam segment illustrated in FIG. <b>46</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 48</figref> is a side elevational view of a display panel, shown detachably mounted on the overhead framework.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 48A</figref> is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the panel, shown in FIG. <b>48</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 49</figref> is a perspective view of the display panel, showing the opposite face thereof.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref> is a perspective view of a mobile cart.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 51</figref> is a front elevational view of the mobile cart.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 52</figref> is a side elevational view of the mobile cart.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 53</figref> is a fragmentary, side elevational view of the mobile cart, shown with a panel hung on one side thereon for storage.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 54</figref> is a front elevational view of an acoustical pad panel.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 55</figref> is a fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of an upper portion of the acoustical pad panel.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 56</figref> is a fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the acoustical pad panel, with the associated connector removed.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 57</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column, shown with the associated cover partially removed to reveal power wiring mounted therein.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 58</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column, shown with the associated cover partially removed to reveal cable wiring mounted therein.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 59</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a T-connection, with the beam covers removed to reveal the routing of power and communication wires therethrough.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 60</figref> is a horizontal cross-sectional view of a column, shown with power and communication wires disposed therein.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 61</figref> is a horizontal cross-sectional view of a column, shown with power units and communication units mounted therein, and connected with the associated wires.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 62</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of an in-line connection shown with power and cable wires routed therethrough.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 63</figref> is a top plan view of a T-connection, shown with portions thereof broken away to reveal the routing of power and cable wires therethrough.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 64</figref> is a partially schematic, exploded perspective view of power units and communication units for mounting in a column.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 65</figref> is a fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of the column foot, shown with power and cable wires routed therethrough.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 66</figref> is a vertical cross-sectional view of a perimeter beam segment, shown with associated task lighting mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 67</figref> is a fragmentary perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with a “V” uplighting arrangement mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 68</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with a curvilinear downlighting arrangement mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 69</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with a curvilinear uplighting arrangement mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 70</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with a circular beam cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with a top cable tray mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 72</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with an open raceway extension mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 73</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with an enclosed raceway extension mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 74</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a perimeter beam segment with a rectangular beam cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 75</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column with a rectangular cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 76</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column with a large square cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 77</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column with a small square cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 78</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column with a large triangular cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 79</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column with a small triangular cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 80</figref> is a fragmentary, perspective view of a column with a small circular cover mounted thereon.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 81</figref> is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, comprising an octagonal framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan, with removable panels arranged to define a large, group workspace.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 82</figref> is a perspective view of the octagonal framework furniture system shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 81</figref>, wherein the panels have been rearranged to define multiple, smaller, sub-group workspaces for breakout type activities.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 83</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a serpentine framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan, with removable display panels arranged to support multiple group work activities.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 84</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a ring-shaped framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan, with removable panels arranged to define a large group workspace.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 85</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising an X-shaped framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 86</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a Y-shaped framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 87</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a dual-square framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 88</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a triangle-shaped framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 89</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a semi-arcuate framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 90</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a dual-triangle framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 91</figref> is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a combination framework, and shown deployed in an open office plan.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “right”, “left”, “rear”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-3</figref>. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the invented concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

The reference numeral <b>1</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) generally designates a furniture system embodying the present invention. Furniture system <b>1</b> is particularly adapted to support group work activities in open plans, and the like, such as the illustrated open office space <b>2</b>. In the illustrated furniture system <b>1</b>, a plurality of posts or columns <b>3</b> support an overhead support or framework <b>4</b> on the floor <b>5</b> of the open office space <b>2</b> in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels <b>6</b> are provided, wherein each panel <b>6</b> is constructed to permit easy, manual bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement <b>7</b> is associated with overhead framework <b>4</b>, and cooperates with connectors <b>8</b> on panel <b>6</b> to detachably suspend panels <b>6</b> at various locations along overhead framework <b>4</b>. Panels <b>6</b> are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements, such as the configurations shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-3</figref>, to efficiently and effectively support different group and/or individual work activities. Preferably, panels <b>6</b> are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.

In the illustrated example, open office space <b>2</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) is located in an open corner area of an associated building, immediately adjacent to a plurality of conventional workstations <b>12</b>, which may be formed by arrangements such as the illustrated partition panels <b>13</b>, and/or modular furniture units <b>14</b>. In the arrangement shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, at least some of the conventional workstations <b>12</b> are preferably oriented so that they open outwardly to the open space <b>2</b> in which furniture system <b>1</b> is located, so as to provide convenient access to any participant workers.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>, columns <b>3</b> have a substantially identical construction, wherein each comprises a core assembly <b>18</b>, a foot assembly <b>19</b>, and a beam connector assembly <b>20</b>. Core assembly <b>18</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) includes an elongated, rigid weldment <b>21</b>, which extends continuously between foot assembly <b>19</b> and beam connector assembly <b>20</b>. As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, weldment <b>21</b> comprises two, substantially identical, formed channel segments <b>22</b> and <b>23</b>, each of which has a U-shaped portion, comprising a web <b>25</b> and outwardly extending flanges <b>26</b> and <b>27</b>, and an L-shaped portion, comprising perpendicularly disposed flanges <b>28</b> and <b>29</b>. Channel segments <b>22</b> and <b>23</b> re positioned in a back-to-back fashion, with the edges between flanges <b>25</b> and <b>27</b> and <b>28</b> and <b>29</b> respectively, abutting and fixedly interconnected by means such as the illustrated weld beads <b>30</b>. The resultant structure forms a central tube <b>31</b> having a substantially square lateral cross-sectional shape, with two pairs of flanges <b>25</b> and <b>26</b>, and <b>29</b>, respectively, extending outwardly from central tube <b>31</b>.

Core assembly <b>18</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) also includes a pair of external raceway blocks <b>35</b> and <b>36</b>, which extend along and are fastened to the exterior surfaces of core flanges <b>26</b>. Raceway blocks <b>35</b> and <b>36</b> perform a spacing function, and in the illustrated example, are electrically insulative, being constructed of plastic, wood, or the like. A pair of external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> are attached to the exterior surfaces of raceway blocks <b>35</b> and <b>36</b> respectively, and are adapted to mount various electrical units therein, as described in greater detail hereinafter. The illustrated external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> are substantially identical, and each has a general U-shaped top plan configuration, comprising a central web <b>39</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>) with a pair of outwardly extending flanges <b>40</b>. Each raceway flange <b>40</b> includes a barb-shaped hook <b>41</b> which projects laterally outwardly from an external, medial portion of the flange, and a pair of inwardly facing grooves <b>42</b> and <b>43</b> located adjacent the free end of the flange <b>40</b>.

A pair of removable column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>) are provided to enclose the opposite sides of core assembly <b>18</b>. Column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> have a substantially identical construction, each including a generally, semi-circularly shaped exterior panel <b>46</b> with a pair of inwardly facing, L-shaped flanges <b>47</b> extending along the opposite sides thereof. The outer edges <b>48</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>) of column cover flanges <b>47</b> are bent rearwardly toward the interior of the associated exterior panel <b>46</b>, and form fastener edges <b>49</b> that are closely received within the associated hooks <b>41</b> on raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> to form a snap-lock therebetween, which assists in securely, yet detachably mounting column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> on core assembly <b>18</b>. Each column cover <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> also includes a pair of upper registration plates <b>50</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) mounted on the interior surface of panel <b>46</b> adjacent the upper end thereof, and a lower registration plate <b>51</b> and associated depending pin <b>52</b> adjacent the lower end of panel <b>46</b>. Column cover registration pin <b>52</b> is shaped to be received in a mating aperture <b>52</b>′ in foot assembly <b>19</b>, and upper registration plates <b>50</b> and <b>51</b> are fastened to a split, top cover <b>53</b> of core assembly <b>18</b>, as described in greater detail below.

A pair of external raceway access covers <b>54</b> and <b>55</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>) are also included in core assembly <b>18</b>, and have a shallow, U-shaped configuration, comprising a flat exterior plate <b>56</b>, and inwardly turned, opposite side edges <b>57</b> that are received in the exteriormost grooves <b>42</b> of external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> to form a snap-lock therebetween. Raceway covers <b>54</b> and <b>55</b> are shaped to enclose that portion of the external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> in which associated electrical units are not mounted. For example, in the example illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, a power switch <b>60</b> and receptacle <b>61</b> are mounted within external raceway <b>37</b>. Power switch <b>60</b> is positioned to protrude slightly from the external raceway to facilitate ready access, while receptacle <b>61</b> is positioned so that it is generally flush with the exterior of the raceway covers <b>54</b> and <b>55</b>. Raceway cover <b>54</b> is split into three separate sections to extend between the bottom of switch <b>60</b> and the top of receptacle <b>61</b>, between the top of switch <b>60</b> and top cover <b>53</b>, as well as between the bottom of receptacle <b>61</b> and foot assembly <b>19</b>. As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 7</figref>, external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b>, as well as their associated covers <b>54</b> and <b>55</b> respectively, are inset from the exterior surfaces of column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b>, thereby forming a pair of external grooves <b>62</b> which extend longitudinally along diametrically opposed sides of column <b>3</b>. External grooves <b>62</b> are interrupted by the outwardly protruding electrical units mounted within the external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b>, such as the switch <b>60</b> and receptacle <b>61</b> shown in FIG. <b>5</b>.

Core weldment <b>21</b> defines a pair of internal raceways <b>58</b> and <b>59</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>) between both sets of flanges <b>25</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>27</b> to facilitate the routing of power and cable wires through columns <b>3</b>, as described in greater detail below. Preferably, each one of the internal raceways <b>58</b> and <b>59</b> is closely associated with one of the external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b>, so that wires can be routed therebetween, and the wires in each set remain physically separated from the other set to avoid both mechanical and/or electrical interference therebetween. In the illustrated example, internal raceway <b>58</b> and external raceway <b>37</b> are associated with one another, and are preferably dedicated to power wiring, such as 110 volt AC lines, 220 volt AC lines, and the like, while internal raceway <b>59</b> and external raceway <b>38</b> are associated with each other, and are preferably dedicated to low voltage cabling, such as telephone lines, data lines, etc.

Top cover <b>53</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>) includes two, substantially identical halves <b>63</b>, each of which has a generally semi-circular, top plan configuration, and includes a central, circumferential notch <b>64</b>, which mates with associated exterior groove <b>62</b> along column <b>3</b>, between adjacent column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b>. Top plate halves <b>63</b> also include a central, semi-circularly shaped cutout <b>65</b> to receive an associated portion of the beam connector assembly <b>20</b> therethrough. Fasteners <b>66</b> securely mount top plate halves <b>63</b> to column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b>, as well as underlying core assembly <b>18</b>.

Foot assembly <b>19</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10-12</figref>) is connected with the lower end of core assembly <b>18</b>, and provides vertical adjustment for column <b>3</b> to accommodate for any undulations or unevenness in the floor <b>5</b> of the building room. In the illustrated foot assembly <b>19</b>, a structural tube joint <b>70</b> is provided, having a substantially square, top-plan configuration shaped to be closely received within the lower end of tube <b>31</b> in core assembly <b>18</b>. As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, laterally extending through bolts <b>71</b> securely interconnect structural tube joint <b>70</b> and core assembly <b>18</b>. A pair of structural base plates <b>72</b> and <b>73</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>) are attached to the lower end of structural tube joint <b>70</b>. A structural tube joint base <b>74</b> is securely mounted within the interior of structural tube joint <b>70</b> at the lower end thereof, and serves to support a height adjustment nut <b>75</b>, and a pair of height adjustment pads <b>76</b> and <b>77</b>. Adjustment pads <b>76</b> and <b>77</b> serve to alleviate friction and corrosion between nut <b>75</b> and base <b>74</b>, and in the illustrated example, adjustment pad <b>77</b> is fastened to base <b>74</b>, and adjustment pad <b>76</b> is fastened to nut <b>75</b>. A height adjustment bolt <b>78</b> has the upper portion thereof threadedly engaged in height adjustment nut <b>75</b>, with a limit nut <b>79</b> attached to its uppermost end. A pair of U-shaped, external raceway base plates <b>80</b> and <b>81</b> are attached to an associated one of the structural base plates <b>72</b> and <b>73</b>, and serve to close the lower ends of external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b>.

Foot assembly <b>19</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>) also includes a foot base <b>85</b> adapted to abuttingly engage the floor <b>5</b> of the building room, without marring the same. Foot base <b>85</b> is attached to an associated lower foot base plate <b>86</b> by suitable fasteners, such as the illustrated screws <b>87</b> (FIG. <b>12</b>). Lower foot base <b>86</b> is fixedly attached to the lower end of height adjustment bolt <b>78</b> by an upper foot base plate <b>88</b>, and an X-shaped connector <b>89</b>. Upper foot base plate <b>88</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>) includes a center portion <b>90</b> with four radially extending spokes <b>90</b>′ which overlay X-connector <b>89</b>, so as to form openings <b>91</b> therethrough to permit the routing of both power and cable wires through the interior of column <b>3</b>.

Lower foot base plate <b>86</b> and foot base <b>85</b> both have an annular configuration with open center positions, which communicate with the radial openings in upper foot base plate <b>88</b> to permit power and cable wires to be routed completely through foot assembly <b>19</b>, and into the floor <b>5</b> of the building.

A lower foot cover <b>92</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10-12</figref>) is attached to upper foot base plate <b>88</b>, and extends downwardly therefrom to telescopingly enclose lower foot base <b>86</b> and foot base <b>85</b>. An upper foot cover <b>93</b> is attached to the lower surface of structural base plates <b>72</b> and <b>73</b>, and extends downwardly therefrom to telescopingly enclose the height adjustment bolt <b>78</b>, as well as the upper portion of lower foot cover <b>92</b>. Rotation of foot base <b>85</b> with respect to column <b>3</b> raises and lowers the elevation of column <b>3</b> to accommodate for any undulations or unevenness in the building floor <b>5</b>, such that overhead framework <b>4</b> can be made level. Foot covers <b>92</b> and <b>93</b> serve to create an aesthetically pleasing exterior appearance for the foot assembly <b>19</b>, which mates with the exterior of column <b>3</b>.

Each column <b>3</b> also includes beam connector assembly <b>20</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13-15</figref>) disposed at the upper end of core assembly <b>18</b>, which is adapted to connect column <b>3</b> with an associated portion of the overhead framework <b>4</b>. The illustrated beam connector assembly <b>20</b> includes a structural tube joint <b>98</b> in the form of a rigid post, having a substantially square transverse cross-sectional shape, adapted to be closely received into the interior of core assembly tube <b>31</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>) at the uppermost end of core weldment <b>21</b>. In the example illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, through bolts <b>99</b> extend transversely through the lower end of structural tube joint <b>98</b>, and securely mount the same within core weldment <b>21</b>. A top plate <b>100</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>) is fixedly attached to the upper end of structural tube joint <b>98</b> by means such as welding or the like, and has an oblong configuration, with opposite arcuate edges <b>101</b>, and opposite straight edges <b>102</b>.

A pair of slots or windows <b>103</b> and <b>104</b> extend through top plate <b>100</b> adjacent straight edges <b>102</b>, and are in vertical alignment with the underlying internal power raceway <b>58</b> and internal cable raceway <b>59</b> in core assembly <b>18</b>. A pair of side plates <b>105</b> are attached to the straight edges <b>102</b> of top plate <b>100</b> and extend upwardly therefrom, and in conjunction with top plate <b>100</b>, form a transition box assembly <b>106</b> for both power and cable wiring. A pair of inwardly facing U-shaped brackets <b>107</b> are mounted on the upper face of top plate <b>100</b>, interior of windows <b>103</b> and <b>104</b>, and form interior walls for transition box assembly <b>106</b>.

A connector tube <b>108</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>) is supported on the upper edges of transition box brackets <b>107</b> by a tube plate <b>109</b>. A cable extender tube <b>100</b> is provided, having a Z-shaped flange <b>111</b> at its lower end. The lower surface of Z-shaped flange <b>111</b> is attached to top plate <b>100</b> adjacent an associated transition box bracket <b>107</b>, such that the axial opening in cable extender tube <b>110</b> is generally aligned with the center of top plate <b>100</b>. Cable extender tube <b>110</b> has an exterior diameter that is substantially less than the inside diameter of column connector tube <b>108</b>, and is telescopingly received within the interior of connector tube <b>108</b>, thereby defining an annularly shaped raceway <b>112</b> therebetween.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 62</figref>, power cables <b>330</b> can be routed from the internal power raceway <b>58</b> in core assembly <b>18</b> through top plate window <b>103</b>, then laterally inbetween the brackets <b>107</b> of transition box <b>106</b>, and upwardly through the annular raceway <b>112</b> formed between connector tube <b>108</b> and cable extender tube <b>110</b>. In like fashion, cable wiring <b>333</b> from the interior cable raceway <b>59</b> in core assembly <b>18</b> can be routed through top plate window <b>104</b>, then inwardly inbetween the sides of transition box brackets <b>107</b>, and then upwardly through the center of cable extender tube <b>110</b>. Power wires <b>330</b> and cabling wires <b>333</b> are thereby kept physically separated from each other, so as to avoid both mechanical and electrical interference therebetween.

In the furniture system <b>1</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, overhead framework <b>4</b> has a circular top plan configuration, comprising a plurality of arcuately shaped perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, and generally straight cross beam segments <b>116</b>. The illustrated overhead framework <b>4</b> comprises eight substantially identical perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, and four substantially identical cross beam segments <b>116</b>, all of which are interconnected, and in turn attached to eight columns <b>3</b> by various types of connectors <b>117</b>, as described in greater detail hereinafter.

With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16-21</figref>, each perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> has a substantially I-shaped, lateral cross-sectional configuration, comprising a central web <b>121</b> (FIGS. <b>17</b>-<b>21</b>), with upper and lower flanges <b>122</b> and <b>123</b> respectively, fixed along opposite upper and lower edges thereof. Upper flange <b>122</b> includes a pair of depending side flanges <b>124</b>, having downwardly inclined free edges <b>125</b> which face toward the exterior of the beam segment. Lower flange <b>123</b> includes a pair of upstanding side flanges <b>126</b>, with squared-off, upwardly facing free edges <b>127</b>. Perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> also includes three intermediate flanges <b>128</b>-<b>130</b> which project laterally outwardly from both sides of web <b>121</b>. The uppermost or top intermediate flange <b>128</b> includes a pair of upstanding side flanges <b>131</b>, having downwardly inclined free edges <b>132</b> which face toward the exterior of the beam segment. Middle intermediate flange <b>129</b> also includes a pair of side flanges <b>133</b>, wherein the same extend both upwardly and downwardly of middle flange <b>129</b>, and each includes an inclined, upper free edge <b>134</b> which faces toward the exterior of the beam <b>70</b>, and a squared-off lower free edge <b>135</b>. The lowermost or bottom intermediate flange <b>130</b> includes a pair of upstanding side flanges <b>137</b>, each with a squared of upwardly facing free edge <b>137</b>. Bottom intermediate flange <b>130</b> also includes two pairs of upstanding auxiliary ribs <b>138</b>, which in conjunction with two pairs of similar auxiliary ribs <b>139</b> depending from middle intermediate flange <b>129</b>, and a pair of horizontal ribs <b>140</b> on web <b>121</b>, facilitate mounting electrical bus strips <b>158</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 66</figref>) on opposite sides of beam segment <b>115</b> for task lighting fixtures <b>159</b> and the like, as described below.

The opposite ends of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19-21</figref>) are equipped to detachably interconnect adjacent beam segments <b>115</b>. Each end of the illustrated perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> includes two pairs of fastener apertures <b>142</b> which extend horizontally through web <b>121</b> between intermediate flanges <b>128</b> and <b>129</b> and <b>129</b> and <b>130</b>, respectively. A pair of threaded top cover plate apertures <b>143</b> extend vertically into a flattened terminal area on the upper surface of top flange <b>122</b>, and three, threaded lower cover plate apertures <b>144</b> extend horizontally into lower flange <b>123</b>, and a lower portion of web <b>121</b> between flanges <b>123</b> and <b>130</b>.

Snap-on, removable beam covers <b>145</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18 and 19</figref>) are provided to selectively enclose the space between upper flanges <b>122</b> and middle intermediate flanges <b>129</b>. Each of the illustrated beam covers <b>145</b> comprises a substantial flat strip <b>146</b> with spaced apart grooves or reveals <b>147</b> extending longitudinally along the exterior surface thereof for ornamental purposes. Two U-shaped hooks <b>148</b> and <b>149</b> protrude laterally from the interior surface of strip <b>146</b>. The upper hook <b>148</b> has a downwardly extending leg <b>150</b> which locks behind the inclined edge <b>132</b> of upper intermediate flange <b>128</b>. The lower hook <b>149</b> also has a downwardly protruding leg <b>151</b> which locks behind the inclined edge <b>134</b> of middle intermediate flange <b>129</b>. A top flange <b>152</b> extends laterally inwardly from the upper edge of strip <b>146</b>, and covers an associated upper surface of upper flange <b>122</b>. Preferably, beam cover <b>145</b> is slightly flexible along its longitudinal axis to conform with the arcuate shape of the perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, and may be constructed from an extruded aluminum, vinyl, or the like.

Each perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> has associated therewith both an inner and an outer one of the beam covers <b>145</b> associated therewith to enclose the upper portions of both sides of the beam segment <b>115</b>. Each illustrated beam cover <b>145</b> is slightly longer than the length of the side face of the beam segment <b>115</b> it is covering, and extends generally to the centerline of the associated column <b>3</b> at which the ends of the perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> are interconnected, so as to provide a substantially continuous enclosure or cover over the exterior of overhead framework <b>4</b>.

The multi-flanged configuration of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> (FIGS. <b>19</b>-<b>21</b>), particularly in conjunction with beam covers <b>145</b>, form utility ways or channels which assist in the operation of furniture system <b>1</b>. In the illustrated example, the two spaces between upper flange <b>122</b> and top intermediate flange <b>128</b> define a pair of raceways <b>155</b> that are particularly adapted to route cabling, or similar low voltage wires therethrough, such as wiring for communications equipment, data lines, signal lines, and the like. Cable raceways <b>155</b> are easily accessed from either side of perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> by simply removing the associated beam cover <b>145</b>. The cable raceways <b>155</b> in perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> also communicate with the interior cable raceways <b>59</b> in the columns <b>3</b>, in the manner described in greater detail hereinafter.

The two spaces between top intermediate flange <b>128</b> and middle intermediate flange <b>129</b> also define a pair of raceways <b>156</b>, which, in the illustrated example, are particularly adapted to route power wires through the furniture system <b>1</b>. Electrical power wires <b>330</b> connected with conventional building sources, or the like, are routed through the power raceways <b>156</b> to provide electrical power to various locations throughout the furniture system. Power raceways <b>156</b> communicate with the interior power raceways <b>58</b> in columns <b>3</b>, as described below.

As previously noted, the spaces between middle intermediate flange <b>129</b> and bottom intermediate flange <b>130</b> form a pair of raceways <b>157</b> in which two electrical lighting bus strips are mounted. As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 66</figref>, an elongate, electrical bus strip <b>158</b> is mounted in each of the two bus raceways <b>157</b>. The illustrated electrical bus strips <b>158</b> have a conventional construction, and are adapted to mount associated lighting fixtures <b>159</b> therein, such as the track system marketed under the brand “STAFF” by Staff Sales, Inc. of Highland, N.Y. Lighting fixtures <b>159</b> each include a loop-shaped arm <b>160</b> on which a focused tasklamp <b>161</b> is mounted by an adjustable connector knob <b>162</b>, which permits both horizontal and rotational adjustment of lamp <b>161</b>. Each lighting fixture <b>159</b> includes a snap-lock connector <b>163</b> at its inner end which mates with electrical bus <b>158</b> by axially rotating lighting fixture <b>159</b>, thereby mechanically attaching lighting fixture <b>159</b> to electrical bus <b>158</b>, and simultaneously making an electrical connection therebetween.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>, the ends of each perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> include two U-shaped cutouts <b>164</b>, through the middle intermediate flange <b>129</b> which provide access for wires in the beam power raceways <b>156</b> to extend into the bus raceway <b>157</b> for connection with bus strips <b>158</b>. The space between lower flange <b>123</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19-21</figref>) and bottom intermediate flange <b>130</b> defines a panel hanger way or channel <b>170</b> in which panels <b>6</b> are detachably suspended, as explained more fully below.

With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 22-24</figref>, cross beam segments <b>116</b> are substantially identical, and each has a vertical cross-sectional shape somewhat similar to that of a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, except that cross beam segments <b>116</b> are slightly taller or thicker in the vertical direction to provide increased structural support to span the interior of overhead framework <b>4</b> without sagging. Cross beam segments <b>116</b> each have a generally I-shaped vertical cross-sectional configuration, comprising a web <b>173</b>, with upper and lower flanges <b>174</b> and <b>175</b> respectively, extending along opposite top and bottom edges thereof. Upper flange <b>174</b> includes a pair of depending side flanges <b>176</b>, having downwardly inclined free edges <b>177</b> which face toward the exterior of cross beam segment <b>116</b>. Lower flange <b>175</b> includes a pair of upstanding side flanges <b>178</b>, each of which has a squared-off, upwardly facing free edge <b>179</b>.

Unlike perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, each cross beam segment <b>116</b> has a two-piece construction, comprising a T-shaped upper portion <b>184</b>, and a flanged lower portion <b>185</b>. The flanged lower portion <b>185</b> of cross beam segment <b>116</b> is substantially identical to the lower portion of perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, and is defined by perimeter beam flanges <b>123</b>, <b>130</b>, <b>129</b> and <b>128</b>. The lower portion of T-shaped beam segment <b>184</b> is fixedly attached to the upper portion of flanged beam segment <b>185</b> by means such as the illustrated rivets <b>186</b>.

The flanged lower portion <b>185</b> of cross beam segment <b>116</b> includes three intermediate flanges <b>187</b>-<b>189</b>, which extend laterally outwardly from opposite sides of web <b>173</b>. Top intermediate flange <b>187</b> includes a pair of upstanding side flanges <b>190</b> with inclined free edges <b>191</b> which face toward the exterior of cross beam segment <b>116</b>. Middle intermediate flange <b>188</b> includes a pair of side flanges <b>192</b>, which extend both upwardly and downwardly of middle intermediate flange <b>188</b>, with a pair of upper, inclined free edges <b>193</b> which face toward the exterior of cross beam segment <b>116</b>, and a pair of squared off, downwardly facing lower edges <b>194</b>. Bottom intermediate flange <b>189</b> includes a pair of upstanding side flanges <b>195</b> with upstanding squared off free edges <b>196</b>. Bottom intermediate flange <b>189</b> also includes two pairs of upstanding auxiliary ribs <b>197</b>, which in conjunction with two pairs of similarly shaped auxiliary ribs <b>198</b> depending from middle intermediate flange <b>188</b>, and a pair of horizontal ribs <b>199</b> on web <b>173</b>, serve to mount electrical bus strips <b>158</b> therein.

The opposite ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> are equipped to detachably interconnect adjacent beam segments. Each end of the illustrated cross beam segment <b>116</b> includes two pairs of fastener apertures <b>200</b> which extend horizontally through web <b>173</b> between intermediate flanges <b>187</b> and <b>188</b> and <b>188</b> and <b>189</b>, respectively. A pair of threaded top cover plate apertures <b>201</b> extend vertically into a flattened terminal area on the upper surface of top flange <b>122</b>, and three threaded lower cover plate apertures <b>202</b> extend horizontally into lower flange <b>175</b>, and a lower portion of web <b>173</b> between flanges <b>175</b> and <b>189</b>.

Snap-on, removable beam covers <b>204</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 22-24</figref>) are provided to enclose the spaces disposed between upper flanges <b>174</b> and middle intermediate flanges <b>188</b>. Beam covers <b>204</b> are similar to perimeter beam covers <b>145</b>, and each comprises a substantially flat elongate strip <b>205</b>, having a plurality of longitudinal extending reveals or grooves <b>206</b> extending along the exterior surface thereof for improved aesthetics. Two U-shaped hooks <b>207</b> and <b>208</b> protrude laterally from the interior surface of strip <b>205</b> to attach cover <b>204</b> to the opposite sides of an associated cross beam segment <b>116</b>. The upper hook <b>207</b> includes a downwardly extending leg <b>209</b> which locks behind the inclined edge <b>191</b> of upper intermediate flange <b>187</b>. The lower hook <b>208</b> also includes a downwardly extending leg <b>210</b> which locks behind the inclined edge <b>193</b> of middle intermediate flange <b>188</b>. A top flange <b>211</b> extends laterally inwardly from the upper edge of strip <b>146</b>, and covers an associated upper surface of upper flange <b>174</b>. Beam covers <b>204</b> are preferably constructed from the same material as perimeter beam covers <b>145</b> to provide a consistent, finished appearance to furniture system <b>1</b>. The illustrated beam covers <b>204</b> are somewhat flexible along their longitudinal axis, and have a length slightly longer than that of the associated cross beam segment <b>116</b> to abuttingly mate with the covers <b>145</b> on perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>.

Like perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> (FIGS. <b>23</b>-<b>24</b>), the flanged arrangement of cross beam segments <b>116</b>, in conjunction with covers <b>204</b> forms utility channels which facilitate the operation and use of furniture system <b>1</b>. In the illustrated example, the spaces between each upper flange <b>174</b> and top intermediate flange <b>187</b> define a pair of cable raceways <b>213</b>, which communicate not only with the interior cable raceways <b>59</b> in columns <b>3</b>, but also with the cable raceways <b>155</b> of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. The spaces between top intermediate flange <b>187</b> and middle intermediate flange <b>188</b> define a pair of power raceways <b>214</b>, which communicate with the interior power raceways <b>58</b> in columns <b>3</b>, as well as the power raceways <b>156</b> in perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. The spaces between middle intermediate flange <b>188</b> and bottom intermediate flange <b>189</b> define a pair of bus raceways <b>215</b> in which electrical bus strips <b>158</b> are mounted. The spaces between lower flange <b>175</b> and bottom intermediate flange <b>189</b> define a pair of panel hanger channels <b>216</b> in which panels <b>6</b> are detachably suspended in the manner described below. As is apparent by comparing the beam segments illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19 and 23</figref>, the power raceways <b>156</b> and <b>214</b>, bus raceways <b>157</b> and <b>215</b>, and panel hanger channels <b>170</b> and <b>216</b> of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> and cross beam segments <b>116</b> respectively, are substantially identical, so that related parts of furniture system <b>1</b> can be used universally throughout. Due to the greater vertical thickness of cross beam segments <b>116</b>, the cable raceway <b>213</b> in cross beam segments <b>116</b> is substantially larger than the cable raceway <b>155</b> in perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>.

With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, different style connectors <b>117</b> are provided to interconnect perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, cross beam segments <b>116</b>, and columns <b>3</b> into different configurations. The furniture system <b>1</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-3</figref> has a column <b>3</b>, and an associated connector <b>117</b>, at each end of each perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>. Cross beam segments <b>116</b> are arranged in an “X” top plan configuration, wherein each cross beam segment <b>116</b> is disposed approximately <b>90</b> degrees from the next adjacent cross beam segment <b>116</b>. The exterior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> are connected with associated perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> at every other column <b>3</b>. The interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> are interconnected with one another, so as to span the entire width or interior of overhead framework <b>4</b> to avoid interference with free movement within furniture system <b>1</b>.

In the furniture system <b>1</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-80</figref>, three different types of connectors <b>117</b> are provided, comprising an in-line connector <b>220</b> (FIG. <b>25</b>), which is adapted to interconnect two adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> in an end-to-end fashion, a T-connector <b>221</b> (FIG. <b>31</b>), which is designed to interconnect two adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> and an associated cross beam segment <b>116</b> in a “T” configuration, and an X-connector <b>222</b> (FIG. <b>37</b>), which is adapted to interconnect the four interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> in a mutually perpendicular relationship. Connectors <b>220</b>-<b>222</b> have a somewhat similar type of construction, and are detachably connected with the associated ends of beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b> by threaded fasteners or the like, such that the entire furniture system <b>1</b> can be readily disassembled and reassembled at new locations.

In-line connector <b>220</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25-28</figref><i>a</i>) comprises a rigid, cylindrically shaped joint tube <b>225</b>, shaped with an outside diameter that is slightly less than the inside diameter of the connector tube <b>108</b> on column <b>3</b>. A connector collar <b>226</b> is telescopingly received over the upper end of joint tube <b>225</b>, and is securely fastened thereto. A rectangular power level plate <b>227</b> is provided, having a central, circular opening <b>228</b>, and a pair of longitudinally extending notches <b>229</b> through opposite ends thereof. Two pairs of substantially identical fletch plates <b>231</b>, with intermediate spacer plates <b>230</b>, are arranged in a laterally stacked pack, and inserted into the notches <b>229</b> in power level plate <b>227</b> at a general medial portion of fletch plates <b>231</b>. The lower portions of the interior end edges of fletch plates <b>231</b> and spacer plates <b>230</b> abut an associated flat on connector collar <b>226</b>, and are fixedly attached to connector collar <b>226</b>, and power level plate <b>227</b> by means such as welding. Each fletch plate <b>231</b> includes a pair of outwardly extending fingers <b>232</b>, which are spaced laterally apart by spacer plate <b>230</b> a horizontal distance sufficient to closely receive therebetween the web <b>121</b> of a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, with each pair of fingers <b>232</b> spaced vertically apart a distance adapted to closely receive therebetween the middle intermediate flange <b>129</b> on the end of one of the perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. Each stack of fletch plates <b>231</b> and spacer plates <b>230</b> extends upwardly from power level plate <b>227</b>. A cable level plate <b>233</b>, with central opening <b>236</b>, is positioned directly above power level plate <b>227</b>, and is attached to the upper edges of fletch plates <b>231</b> and associated spacer plates <b>230</b>, so as to create a one-piece, unitary weldment, as illustrated in FIG. <b>25</b>. The vertically stacked relationship between the power and cable level plates <b>227</b> and <b>233</b> creates within the interior of the connector <b>220</b> a power wire space <b>239</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28A</figref>) between plates <b>227</b> and <b>233</b>, and a cable wire space <b>240</b> above plate <b>233</b>. Wire spaces <b>239</b> and <b>240</b> combine with the central openings <b>228</b> and <b>236</b> in power and cable level plates <b>227</b> and <b>233</b> to facilitate the routing of power and cable wires through in-line connector <b>220</b>, as outlined in greater detail below. Each of the fingers <b>232</b> on fletch plates <b>231</b> includes a pair of laterally extending fastener apertures <b>234</b> through which bolts <b>235</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 29 and 30</figref>) are inserted to securely connect in-line connector <b>120</b> with the adjacent ends of two perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, which is also described below.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 27-30</figref>, in-line connector <b>220</b> is attached to the beam connector assembly <b>20</b> of an associated column <b>3</b> in the following manner. The lower end of the joint tube <b>225</b> is inserted into the upper end of the connector tube <b>108</b> in column <b>3</b>, until the bottom edge of in-line connector collar <b>226</b> abuts the upper edge of connector tube <b>108</b>. In-line connector <b>22</b> is then securely attached to the connector tube <b>108</b> of column <b>3</b> by suitable fasteners, such as the illustrated alien screws <b>237</b>, which are received into mating threaded apertures <b>238</b> and <b>238</b>′ respectively in column connector tube <b>108</b> and joint tube <b>225</b>. Preferably, alien screws <b>237</b> are spaced regularly about the periphery of column connector tube <b>108</b>, so as to securely, yet detachably mount in-line connector <b>220</b> on the beam connector assembly <b>20</b> of beam <b>3</b>.

After in-line connector <b>220</b> has been mounted on the beam connector assembly <b>20</b> of the associated column <b>3</b>, as described above, the ends of two adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> are then each attached to in-line connector <b>220</b>, by inserting the ends of the beams between the associated pairs of fletch plates <b>231</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 29 and 30</figref>. Bolts <b>235</b> are then inserted through the fastener apertures <b>234</b> in the fingers <b>232</b> of fletch plates <b>231</b>, and the associated fastener apertures <b>142</b> in the ends of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. Top cover <b>241</b> is then installed to complete the upper portion of the assembly by inserting fasteners <b>66</b> through top cover <b>241</b> into the underlying fastener <b>143</b> adjacent the ends of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. A pair of bottom covers <b>242</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 28 and 28A</figref>) are attached to the open, lower ends of adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> by inserting fasteners <b>66</b> therethrough into the associated beam apertures <b>144</b>.

When in-line connector <b>220</b> is thusly attached to column <b>3</b>, the upper end of cable extender tube <b>110</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28A</figref>) extends through the central openings <b>228</b> and <b>236</b> in plates <b>227</b> and <b>233</b>, and protrudes into the cable wire space <b>240</b>, which in turn communicates with the cable raceways <b>155</b> of adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. An arcuately shaped top cover <b>241</b> spans the gap between the ends of the upper flanges <b>122</b> of adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> to close cable wire space <b>240</b> and form a pair of substantially continuous cable raceways along the perimeter of overhead framework <b>4</b>.

In like manner, the annular power raceway <b>112</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28A</figref>) between the interior surface of joint tube <b>225</b> and the exterior surface of cable extender tube <b>110</b>, opens into the power wire space <b>239</b> of in-line connector <b>220</b>, which in turn communicates with the power raceways <b>156</b> of adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. The cable level plate <b>233</b> and power level plate <b>227</b> of in-line connector <b>220</b> span the gap between the ends of top intermediate flange <b>128</b> and middle intermediate flange <b>129</b>, so as to form a pair of substantially continuous power raceways along the perimeter of overhead framework <b>4</b>.

With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 31-36</figref>, T-connector <b>221</b> has a construction conceptually similar to in-line connector <b>220</b>, except that it includes a third pair of fletch plates that attach a cross beam segment <b>116</b> to a pair of adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. In the illustrated example, T-connector <b>221</b> comprises a joint tube <b>244</b>, which is substantially identical to in-line joint tube <b>225</b>, and has its lower end shaped to be telescopingly inserted into the upper end of a column connector tube <b>108</b>. The upper end of joint tube <b>244</b> is closely received within, and fixedly attached to a T-connector collar <b>245</b>. A T-connector power level plate <b>246</b> is fixedly attached to the upper end of T-connector collar <b>245</b>, and includes a central opening <b>247</b> aligned with T-connector collar <b>245</b> and joint tube <b>244</b>. T-connector power level plate <b>246</b> has a substantially T-shaped top plan configuration, and includes three notches <b>248</b> which extend longitudinally into each of the three legs of power level plate <b>246</b>. Three pairs of fletch plates <b>249</b>, and associated spacer plates <b>250</b> are received within the notches <b>248</b> of power level plate <b>246</b>, along a medial portion thereof, and have the lower portions of their interior end edges abutting mating flats on T-connector collar <b>225</b>, and fixedly attached thereto, as well as to power level plate <b>246</b> by welding or the like. A T-connector signal level plate <b>251</b> is provided to complete the assembly, and includes a central vertical opening <b>252</b> therethrough, which is vertically aligned with the opening <b>247</b> in power level plate <b>246</b>. Signal level plate <b>251</b> is fixedly attached to the upper edges of each pair of fletch plates <b>249</b> and associated spacer plates <b>250</b>. Fletch plates <b>249</b> are substantially identical to the previously described in-line fletch plates <b>242</b>, and include two outwardly protruding fingers <b>253</b> with a pair of laterally extending fastener apertures <b>254</b> therethrough. The lower end of joint tube <b>244</b> also includes threaded fastener apertures <b>255</b>, which are radially oriented, and spaced regularly about the circumference of joint tube <b>244</b>.

T-connector <b>221</b> is mounted on a column <b>3</b> in a fashion identical to the in-line connector <b>220</b>, as described above. A cross beam segment <b>116</b> is then attached to the perpendicularly extending set of fletch plates <b>249</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 35 and 36</figref>) by inserting the web <b>173</b> of cross beam segment <b>116</b> between the free set of fletch plates <b>249</b>, with the associated fingers <b>243</b> straddling the middle intermediate flange <b>188</b>. Bolts <b>266</b> extend through the fastener apertures <b>254</b> in fletch plate fingers <b>253</b>, and the associated apertures <b>200</b> in the ends of cross beam segment <b>116</b>. An arcuate top cover plate <b>241</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 31-34</figref>) is attached to the uppermost surface of adjacent, cross beam segments <b>116</b> by fasteners <b>66</b> in the previously described fashion to partially enclose the underlying portion of the T-connection, and a T-joint top plate <b>257</b> is attached to the upper surface of cross beam segment <b>116</b> by inserting fasteners <b>66</b> into beam apertures <b>201</b>. T-joint top plate <b>257</b> includes a lip <b>258</b> along its free edge, which engages top cover plate <b>241</b> to fully enclose the T-connection. A bottom cover <b>242</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref>) is attached to the open, lower exterior end of cross beam segment <b>116</b> by inserting fasteners <b>66</b> therethrough into the associated beam apertures <b>202</b>.

With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 37-42</figref>, X-connector <b>222</b> is conceptually similar to in-line connector <b>220</b> and T-connector <b>221</b>, and is adapted to interconnect the four interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> at the vertical center line of furniture system <b>1</b>. X-connector <b>222</b> comprises an upper weldment <b>264</b> and a lower weldment <b>265</b>, which are vertically aligned at the X-joint. Upper weldment <b>264</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38A</figref>) comprises a central connector tube <b>266</b> having a substantially square lateral cross-sectional configuration. Four pairs of upper fletch plates <b>267</b> are provided, each having a laterally extending flange <b>268</b> attached along the upper edge thereof which projects laterally outwardly, and a plurality of horizontally oriented fastener apertures <b>269</b>. Each pair of upper fletch plates <b>267</b> is spaced apart a predetermined distance sufficient to closely receive the web <b>173</b> of an associated cross beam segment <b>116</b> therebetween. The innermost ends of upper fletch plates <b>267</b> are fixedly attached to the exterior surfaces of central connector tube <b>266</b> on each of the four sides thereof, and are arranged in a mutually perpendicular orientation. Top and bottom caps <b>270</b> and <b>271</b> respectively are recessed into the upper and lower ends of central connector tube <b>266</b>, and fastened thereto to complete the upper weldment <b>264</b>.

Lower weldment <b>265</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38B</figref>) includes a central connector tube <b>274</b> having a substantially circular transverse cross-sectional shape. Four pairs of lower fletch plates <b>275</b> are provided with spacer plates <b>276</b> disposed between each pair of lower fletch plates, so as to permit the web <b>173</b> of cross beam segments <b>116</b> to be inserted in between lower fletch plates <b>275</b>. Lower fletch plates <b>275</b> have a configuration similar to the fletch plates <b>249</b> of in-line connector tube <b>20</b>, and comprise a pair of outwardly extending fingers <b>277</b> with laterally extending fastener apertures <b>278</b> therethrough. Top and bottom caps <b>279</b> and <b>280</b> are recessed into the interior of central connector tube <b>274</b> at the opposite ends thereof, and are fixedly mounted in place.

An X-shaped power level plate <b>281</b> is attached to the upper end of central connector tube <b>274</b>, and includes four notches <b>282</b> extending longitudinally through each of the four plate legs. The interior edges of fletch plates <b>275</b> and associated spacer plates <b>276</b> are inserted into plate notches <b>282</b>, and securely fastened to both associated flats on central connector tube <b>274</b>, and to power level plate <b>281</b> by welding, or the like. An X-shaped, signal level plate <b>283</b> is welded to the top edges of fletch plates <b>275</b> and spacer plates <b>276</b>. Four angle braces <b>284</b> are provided for attachment to the lower portion of lower weldment <b>265</b>, and comprise two perpendicularly oriented legs <b>285</b>, with a plurality of vertical fastener apertures <b>286</b> therethrough. Each angle brace <b>284</b> has an arcuate cutout <b>287</b> at its exterior corner, wherein the associated edge mates with the exterior surface of central connector tube <b>274</b>. Spacer plates <b>276</b> are vertically elongated, and protrude downwardly from the associated bottom edges of fletch plates <b>275</b>, and abut the upper surfaces of angle braces <b>284</b> to position the same in lower weldment <b>265</b>. Angle braces <b>284</b> are securely welded to central connector tube <b>274</b>, and spacer plates <b>276</b> to complete the unitary lower weldment <b>265</b>.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 39-42</figref>, X-connector <b>222</b> is connected with cross beam segments <b>116</b> in the following fashion. The web <b>173</b> at the interior end of each cross beam segment <b>116</b> is inserted in between lower fletch plates <b>275</b>, with the fingers <b>277</b> of lower fletch plates <b>275</b> straddling the middle intermediate beam flange <b>189</b>. Through bolts <b>235</b> are inserted through the fastener apertures <b>278</b> in fletch plates <b>275</b>, and the interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b>. Interior beam end covers <b>288</b> are mounted on the inside ends of each of the four cross beam segments <b>116</b> by fasteners inserted into mating beam apertures <b>202</b>, and include a keyhole-shaped slot <b>289</b> through which the free ends of angle braces <b>284</b> are received. Fasteners <b>290</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 41 and 42</figref>) extend vertically through the fastener apertures <b>286</b> in angle braces <b>284</b>, and engage mating fastener apertures in the lower flanges <b>175</b> of cross beam segments <b>116</b>.

The upper weldment <b>274</b> of X-connector <b>222</b> is similarly attached to the interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> at the upper portions thereof. The web <b>173</b> of each cross beam segments <b>116</b> is inserted inbetween the fletch plates <b>276</b> of upper weldment <b>264</b>. Through bolts <b>235</b> are inserted through the fastener apertures <b>269</b> in fletch plates <b>267</b>, and into the associated fastener apertures in the ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b>. An X-shaped top cap <b>291</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref>) is attached to the upper flanges <b>174</b> of cross beam segments <b>116</b> to enclose the X-joint. X-connector <b>222</b> provides a sufficiently rigid connection between the interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> that cross beam segments <b>116</b> can span fully between the perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, without requiring any intermediate support.

Beam connectors <b>220</b>-<b>222</b> and their associated detachable fasteners permit furniture system <b>1</b> to be readily disassembled and reassembled at new sites. This knock-down feature of furniture system <b>1</b> is particularly important in supporting team projects, which are typically of rather limited duration. By using relatively short beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b> interconnected end-to-end by beam connectors <b>220</b>-<b>222</b>, the overall size of the knocked down furniture system <b>1</b> is sufficiently compact that it can be transported within a conventional building elevator, which is an important feature in modern office complexes. When erected, furniture system <b>1</b> is rigid, and completely freestanding, such that it can be moved within a selected space without being disassembled. As is apparent from the drawings, furniture system <b>1</b> may be provided in many different shapes and sizes. In one working embodiment of the furniture system <b>1</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-3</figref>, the diameter of circular framework is approximately thirty feet, occupying around seven hundred square feet of floor space, and is elevated above the floor surface a distance in the range of 6-7 feet. An elevation of eighty inches has been found suitable to accommodate even tall users, yet permit shorter users to readily manipulate panels <b>6</b> on overhead framework <b>4</b>.

Each panel <b>6</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 43-43</figref><i>c</i>) is constructed to permit easy, manual bodily translation of the same by an adult user throughout the furniture system <b>1</b>, as well as outside furniture system <b>1</b>. Preferably, panel <b>6</b> is generally rigid and lightweight to facilitate manual handling, and in the illustrated example, comprises an open frame <b>298</b> extending about the margin of panel <b>6</b>, and lightweight core <b>299</b> mounted within frame <b>298</b>. The panel <b>6</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43</figref><i>a </i>has a soft wood frame <b>298</b>, and a foam core <b>299</b> positioned within frame <b>298</b>. Two fabric layers <b>300</b>, each with an associated underlying polyester layer (not shown) cover the opposite faces of perimeter frame <b>298</b> and core <b>299</b>, and a flexible bumper <b>301</b> is attached to the outer edges of frame <b>298</b> to protect panel <b>6</b>. The laminate fabric cover <b>300</b> and foam core <b>299</b> create tackable surfaces on the opposite sides of panel <b>6</b> for information display purposes, and the like. In one working embodiment of the present invention, panel <b>6</b> has an overall thickness of approximately one inch, a height of approximately 36-80 inches, and a width of around 30-50 inches, such that its total weight is approximately 15-30 pounds to facilitate manually hanging, and removing the same from overhead framework <b>4</b>.

Each of the, illustrated panels <b>6</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 43-43</figref><i>c</i>) includes a pair of panel connectors <b>8</b>, which are shaped to be received in one of the panel hanger rails <b>170</b> and <b>216</b> of overhead framework <b>4</b> to detachably hang the associated panel <b>6</b> at various locations along overhead support <b>4</b>. In the illustrated example, each panel connector <b>8</b> comprises a pair of hanger plates <b>304</b> having a substantially Z-shaped side elevation configuration. Hanger plates <b>304</b> are interconnected in a back-to-back relationship by means such as the illustrated rivets <b>305</b>, thereby forming a downwardly opening U-shaped flange <b>306</b> at the lower end of panel connector <b>8</b>. The upper edge of panel <b>6</b> is inserted in between the opposite sides of U-shaped flange <b>306</b>, and three fasteners <b>307</b> are inserted through the assembly to securely mount each connector <b>8</b> on the upper edge of panel <b>6</b>. Each of the illustrated panels <b>6</b> has two panel connectors <b>8</b>, positioned adjacent opposite sides of the panel <b>6</b>. A pair of anti-friction glides <b>308</b> are mounted adjacent the upper end of each hanger plate <b>304</b> on the opposite sides thereof to slidingly support panel <b>6</b> on the free edges of panel hanger rails <b>170</b> and <b>216</b>. In the illustrated example, each glide <b>308</b> comprises a disc-shaped bearing constructed from an anti-friction material, such as nylon, delrin or the like, with a linear slot <b>310</b> extending along the lowermost portion thereof. An axially positioned fastener <b>311</b> securely mounts each glide <b>308</b> to its associated hanger plate <b>304</b>, and retains the same in position, with notch <b>310</b> facing downwardly, and oriented substantially parallel with the upper edge of panel <b>6</b>. Circular cover plates <b>312</b> are recessed into the exterior ends of glides <b>308</b>, and serve as decorative washers for fasteners <b>311</b>.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 44-45</figref>, panel <b>6</b> can be readily mounted on either side of any perimeter beam segment <b>155</b>, or cross beam segment <b>116</b>. The selected panel <b>6</b> is manually grasped, and translated to that section of the overhead framework <b>4</b> on which the panel <b>6</b> is desired to be hung, and the glides <b>308</b> on panel <b>6</b> are then inserted into the panel hanger rail <b>170</b> or <b>216</b>. For example, when panel <b>6</b> is hung on the exterior side of a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, the upper edge <b>127</b> of lower beam flange <b>123</b> is received within the two notches <b>310</b> of panel glides <b>308</b>. The width of bearing slot <b>310</b> is greater than the width of corresponding flange upper edge <b>127</b>, such that panel <b>6</b> can be readily mounted on either a curved, perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> (FIG. <b>44</b>A), or a straight, cross-beam segment <b>116</b> (FIG. <b>45</b>). The shape of panels <b>6</b> and their associated connectors <b>8</b> in conjunction with hanger rails <b>170</b> and <b>216</b> also permits panels <b>6</b> to be hung back-to-back on opposite sides of beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b>, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 86-88</figref>, without interfering with one another. Anti-friction bearings <b>309</b> permit each panel <b>6</b> to be individually slid horizontally along the overhead framework <b>4</b> as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 46</figref>, to facilitate the configuration and reconfiguration of panels <b>6</b>.

Panels <b>6</b> may be provided with an acoustic interior construction to attenuate the transmission of sound into and out of furniture system <b>1</b>. One example of such an acoustic construction is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43A</figref>, wherein a pair of textile layers <b>300</b> overlie a foam core <b>299</b>. Core <b>299</b> may also include a honeycomb panel, sound attenuating bats, and/or other types of sound absorbing devices.

Panels <b>6</b> may also be provided with one or more display surfaces for storyboarding, and the like, such as the panel <b>315</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 48-49</figref>. Display panel <b>315</b> includes an open, lightweight, wood frame <b>316</b> with a honeycomb core <b>317</b> mounted therein. A pair of marker boards <b>318</b> cover the opposite sides of frame <b>316</b>, and a flexible bumper <b>319</b> is attached to and covers the outer edges of frame <b>316</b>. The illustrated marker boards <b>318</b> are erasable, of the type used with felt tipped markers. Display panel <b>315</b> may include other types of display surfaces, such as a chalkboard, reflective projector screen and/or electronic or video display (not shown). Display panels <b>315</b> are preferably provided in a number of different shapes and sizes to accommodate the various needs of the users. The detachable mounting aspect of display panels <b>315</b> in conjunction with their ready portability permits them to be easily moved from one portion of furniture system <b>1</b> to another portion thereof, such as when the furniture system is reconfigured for either group or break-out activities. Furthermore, display panels <b>315</b> can also be easily transported to other locations, such as the user's permanent workstation, to provide data storage, and thereby avoid duplication, and improve work efficiency. As described below, one or more mobile carts <b>430</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>) may be used to assist in any such transport of display panels <b>315</b>, and may also be used to temporarily store or support display panels <b>315</b>, particularly when the display panels <b>315</b> are moved outside of furniture system <b>1</b>.

Panels <b>6</b> may also include an acoustic curtain <b>320</b> as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 54-56</figref>. Acoustic curtain <b>320</b> is constructed from a flexible material, having a sound absorbing core <b>321</b> to attenuate the transmission of sound. The upper edge <b>322</b> of acoustic curtain <b>320</b> is pleated, and includes a reinforcing strip <b>323</b> to secure the attachment of panel connectors <b>8</b>. Acoustic curtain <b>320</b> not only absorbs sound, but also functions as a visual barrier or partition.

With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 50-53</figref>, a plurality of substantially identical mobile carts <b>430</b> are provided to assist in the configuration of panels <b>6</b> on overhead framework <b>4</b>. Each of the illustrated mobile carts <b>430</b> has a generally triangularly shaped side-elevational configuration, with a panel mounting rail <b>431</b> positioned along the upper edge thereof, and casters <b>432</b> mounted along the bottom thereof to facilitate manual translation of mobile cart <b>430</b> over the floor <b>5</b> of open office space <b>2</b>. The illustrated mobile cart <b>430</b> includes an interior frame <b>433</b> over which a pair of face panels <b>434</b> and <b>435</b> are mounted at the front and rear of interior frame <b>433</b>. The upper edges <b>436</b> of face panels <b>434</b> and <b>435</b> are interconnected along mounting rail <b>431</b>, and their lower edges <b>437</b> are spaced apart a predetermined distance by interior frame <b>433</b>, such that face panels <b>434</b> and <b>435</b> assume an inverted V-shaped side-elevational configuration.

In the illustrated example, mobile cart <b>430</b> includes four casters <b>432</b> mounted adjacent each corner of the base of interior frame <b>433</b>. Interior frame <b>433</b> includes a pair of handles <b>440</b> which are accessible from opposite sides of mobile cart <b>430</b>, and facilitate manually translating mobile cart <b>430</b> about furniture system <b>1</b>. Interior frame <b>433</b> also includes a pair of receptacles <b>441</b> which are adapted to receive and retain selected articles therein, such as markers, erasers, refuse and the like.

The mounting rail <b>431</b> of mobile cart <b>430</b> is adapted to detachably support any style of panel <b>6</b> thereon in a hanging fashion, similar to the manner in which panels <b>6</b> are suspended from overhead framework <b>4</b>. With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 53</figref>, mounting rail <b>431</b> includes an arcuately shaped bracket <b>443</b> attached to the upper edges <b>436</b> of face panels <b>434</b> and <b>435</b>. A U-shaped channel <b>444</b> is mounted in bracket <b>443</b>, and comprises a horizontal web <b>445</b>, with a pair of upstanding flanges <b>446</b> along opposite sides thereof. Each of the bracket flanges <b>446</b> includes a squared off, upwardly facing free edge <b>448</b> that is shaped to be received within the bearing notch <b>310</b> of each panel connector <b>8</b>, so as to securely support associated panel <b>6</b> on a mounting rail <b>431</b> in a hanging fashion. The inwardly oriented one of the faces of a panel <b>6</b> hung on mobile cart <b>430</b> abuts against the outer surface of the associated face panel <b>435</b> of mobile cart <b>430</b>. The vertical height of the panel hanger edges <b>448</b> on bracket <b>443</b> is slightly greater than the overall vertical length of panels <b>6</b>, such that the lowermost edge of a panel <b>6</b> stored on mobile cart <b>430</b> is positioned above the floor surface to prevent interference with the translation of mobile cart <b>430</b> over the floor <b>5</b> of the building room. Preferably, the overall height of mobile cart <b>430</b>, as measured to the top of mounting rail <b>431</b>, is slightly less than the height of overhead framework <b>4</b>, as measured to the bottoms of beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b>, such that mobile cart <b>431</b> can be readily translated underneath overhead framework <b>4</b> to various locations within furniture system <b>1</b>. The panel hanger edges <b>448</b> of bracket <b>443</b> are positioned at an elevation substantially equal to, but slightly less than the elevation of panel hanger rails <b>170</b> and <b>216</b>, so that the user's motion in handling panels <b>6</b> is generally the same at both overhead framework <b>4</b> and mobile cart <b>430</b>. The inverted V-shape of mobile cart <b>430</b> retains stored panels <b>6</b> in a vertically angled orientation which permits mobile cart <b>430</b> to have a height capable of translating beneath overhead framework <b>4</b>, yet prevent the bottom edges of the stored panels <b>6</b> from touching the floor.

Preferably, each of the mobile cart face panels <b>434</b> and <b>435</b> includes a display surface, such as the illustrated marker boards <b>451</b> and <b>452</b>, which permit mobile cart <b>430</b> to be used independently as a freestanding display, even if there are no display type panels <b>315</b> stored thereon. In the illustrated example, marker boards <b>451</b> and <b>452</b> cover a major portion of their associated face panels <b>434</b> and <b>435</b>, and are adapted for use in conjunction with felt tip markers, and other soft, erasable writing instruments, Face panels <b>434</b> and <b>435</b> may also be provided with alternative exterior surfaces, such as a tackable surface, an electronic display, a reflective screen, or the like.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1</figref>, <b>85</b> and <b>89</b>, mobile cart <b>430</b> may also be used with furniture system <b>1</b> as an independent portable partition. In the illustrated embodiments of the present invention, the width of mobile cart <b>430</b> is substantially less than the distance between two adjacent columns <b>3</b> in overhead framework <b>4</b>, such that mobile cart <b>430</b> can be readily positioned therebetween to partition the associated portion of furniture system <b>1</b> from the balance of the building room. Alternatively, mobile cart <b>430</b> may be positioned at a location beneath overhead framework <b>4</b> to further subdivide the workspace associated with furniture system <b>1</b>.

Furniture system <b>1</b> is preferably capable of routing both power and cable wires throughout columns <b>3</b> and overhead framework <b>4</b> to facilitate the use of electronic equipment throughout the furniture system, and can even serve as a means to wire open office space <b>2</b>. As previously noted, the core assembly <b>18</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 60 and 61</figref>) of each column <b>3</b> includes an internal power raceway <b>58</b>, and an internal cable raceway <b>59</b> through which power and signal cables are routed vertically through a major portion of the associated column <b>3</b>, and provide structure on which various types of electronic devices can be mounted within the interior of column <b>3</b>. U-shaped covers <b>327</b> and <b>328</b> extend continuously along, and enclose the open sides of internal wiring raceways <b>58</b> and <b>59</b>, respectively. In the example illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 61</figref>, a circuit breaker box <b>329</b> is mounted adjacent internal power raceway <b>58</b> on cover <b>327</b>, and flanges <b>28</b> and <b>29</b> of core weldment <b>21</b> by fasteners <b>325</b>, and is electrically connected with multiple power cables <b>330</b> routed in internal power raceway <b>58</b>. A data bus block <b>331</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 58</figref>) and a voice bus block <b>332</b> are shown similarly mounted on adjacent cable raceway <b>59</b> (FIG. <b>61</b>), and are electrically connected with the cable wires <b>333</b> therein. As illustrated schematically in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 64</figref>, a series of vertically stacked circuit breakers <b>329</b> are typically required for furniture system <b>1</b>, which are connected through power wires <b>330</b> to a building power source (not shown), and serve to distribute multiple power circuits throughout the furniture system. The illustrated voice bus <b>332</b> is connected to a main system input, and includes multiple ports into which individual communication devices can be connected. Telephone and/or other similar equipment can be mounted directly on columns <b>3</b> to conserve space. Column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> are configured to totally enclose all of the internal electronic devices, such as the illustrated circuit breaker box <b>329</b>, data bus block <b>331</b>, and voice bus block <b>332</b>.

Both power and cable wires <b>330</b> and <b>333</b> can be routed upwardly from column <b>3</b>, through the associated connector <b>220</b>-<b>222</b>, and into one or more beam segments <b>115</b>-<b>116</b> in the following fashion. In the example shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 62 and 63</figref>, power wires <b>330</b> are routed upwardly along internal power raceway <b>58</b>, and through the window <b>103</b> in column top plate <b>100</b>. Power wires <b>330</b> are then routed inwardly between the sides of transition box brackets <b>107</b>, and then upwardly through the annular power raceway <b>112</b> formed between the exterior of cable extender tube <b>110</b>, and the interior of column connector tube <b>108</b>. Power wires <b>330</b> are then routed along the power raceway <b>156</b> or <b>214</b> of either perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> or cross beam segment <b>116</b>. The windows <b>164</b> in the middle intermediate flanges <b>129</b> of beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b> permit power cables <b>330</b> to be inserted therethrough and connected with the electrical bus strips <b>158</b> to provide power to lighting fixtures <b>159</b>.

Cable wires <b>333</b> can also be routed from column <b>3</b> through any one of the connectors <b>220</b>-<b>222</b> into either a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, or a cross beam segment <b>116</b>. With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 62 and 63</figref>, cable wires <b>333</b> extend upwardly along interior cable raceway <b>59</b>, and through the window <b>104</b> in column top cap <b>100</b>. Cable wires <b>333</b> are then threaded inwardly between the edges of transmission box brackets <b>107</b>, and then upwardly through the interior of signal extender tube <b>110</b>. Cable wires <b>333</b> may then be routed horizontally through the cable raceway <b>155</b> or <b>213</b> of either perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, or cross beam segment <b>116</b>.

As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 65</figref>, power wires <b>330</b> and cable wires <b>333</b> can also be routed vertically downwardly along column <b>3</b>, through the foot assembly <b>19</b>, and connected to associated electrical sources, such as through a platform, access floor, or the floor of the building. Power wires <b>330</b> are routed downwardly along internal power raceway <b>58</b> through a window <b>335</b> in structural base plate <b>72</b>, then downwardly through one of the openings <b>91</b> in upper foot base <b>88</b>, and lower foot base plate <b>86</b>, and foot base <b>85</b>. Similarly, cable wires <b>333</b> are routed downwardly along interior cable raceway <b>59</b> through window <b>336</b> in structural base plate <b>72</b>, and then downwardly through one of the openings <b>91</b> opposite power wires <b>330</b> in upper foot base <b>88</b>, as well as lower foot base plate <b>86</b>, and foot base <b>85</b>. In this fashion, power wires <b>330</b> are physically separated from cable wires <b>333</b> throughout the entire furniture system <b>1</b>, thereby alleviating electrical interference between the same.

In addition to the task lighting fixtures <b>159</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 66</figref>, furniture system <b>1</b> is also adapted to include either uplighting or downlighting as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 67-69</figref>, by the addition of elongate lighting elements, such as the illustrated fluorescent tubes <b>338</b>, which are mechanically and electrically connected with the electrical bus strips <b>158</b>.

A “V” uplighting option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 67</figref>, wherein a pair of covers <b>339</b> are attached to the web of a selected beam segment <b>115</b> or <b>116</b>. The illustrated covers <b>339</b> have a substantially planar configuration, with upturned outer edges <b>340</b>, and upwardly formed interior edges <b>341</b>, which are attached to the beam web <b>121</b>, directly underneath the lower intermediate flange <b>130</b>. Covers <b>338</b> extend outwardly and upwardly from beam web <b>121</b> towards the ceiling of the room, and preferably have reflective interior surfaces which provide efficient uplighting for the room.

A curvilinear downlighting option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 68</figref>, wherein an arcuate cover <b>343</b> is attached to the upper flange <b>122</b> of the associated beam segment <b>115</b> along its longitudinal center line by a clip <b>344</b> having an inverted T-shaped configuration. The outer edges <b>345</b> of arcuate cover <b>343</b> are turned inwardly, and the interior surface thereof is preferably reflective to direct light downwardly onto the floor <b>5</b> of the building room.

A curvilinear uplighting option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 69</figref>, wherein a pair of arcuately shaped covers <b>347</b> are attached to the web <b>121</b> of a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> at a location directly beneath the lower intermediate flange <b>130</b>. Each arcuate cover <b>347</b> includes an inwardly bent free edge <b>348</b>, and an upwardly turned interior edge <b>349</b> connected with beam web <b>121</b>. The interior surfaces of arcuate covers <b>347</b> are preferably reflective, such that light from fluorescent tubes <b>338</b> is directed upwardly toward the ceiling of the building room.

It is to be understood that while the lighting arrangements illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 67-69</figref> are shown in conjunction with a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b>, they may also be connected with one or more of the cross beam segments <b>116</b>.

As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 70-81</figref>, furniture system <b>1</b> preferably includes some additional, optional accessories, such as different style covers for columns <b>3</b> and overhead framework <b>4</b>, so that the exterior appearance of furniture system <b>1</b> can be varied without altering its structural configuration. Alternatively shaped extensions are also available, which replace the covers for beam segments <b>115</b> and/or <b>116</b> to provide additional storage for wiring.

More specifically, a circular beam cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 70</figref>, wherein the flat covers <b>145</b> of a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> are replaced by a pair of arcuate covers <b>353</b>, which extend from the exterior center line of upper flange <b>112</b> to just under the bottom intermediate flange <b>130</b>. A top cable tray option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref>, wherein a U-shaped channel <b>354</b>, with inwardly formed free edges <b>355</b>, is attached to the exterior surface of upper flange <b>112</b> by clip-on arrangement (not shown). Therefore, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 71</figref> the overhead framework <b>4</b> comprises a vertical web defining at least two side facing openings and an upwardly facing top opening. An open raceway extension option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 72</figref>, wherein the flat covers <b>145</b> of a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> are replaced by a pair of narrow, cover strips <b>356</b> which enclose the sides of a beam signal raceway <b>155</b>, and a pair of U-shaped extensions <b>357</b>, each of which includes a groove in which the upper edge <b>134</b> of middle intermediate flange <b>129</b> is received to mount the associated extension <b>357</b> in power raceway <b>156</b>, and an upwardly extending outer flange <b>358</b> which extends upwardly to a point substantially parallel to the upper surface of top flange <b>122</b>.

An enclosed raceway extension option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 73</figref>, wherein the flat beam covers <b>145</b> of a perimeter beam segment <b>115</b> are replaced by a pair of enlarged E-shaped covers <b>360</b>. The upper flanges <b>361</b> of E-shaped covers <b>360</b> are attached to the exterior surface of upper beam flange <b>122</b>, while the lower two flanges <b>361</b> and <b>362</b> of covers <b>360</b> include channels <b>363</b> and <b>364</b> respectively along their free edges in which the free edges <b>132</b> and <b>134</b> of intermediate flanges <b>128</b> and <b>129</b> are received. A rectangular beam cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 74</figref>, which is somewhat similar to the previously described covers <b>145</b> and <b>204</b> for beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b>, except that each cover <b>366</b> has its upper edge attached to the exterior surface of top flange <b>122</b>, and includes channels <b>367</b> and <b>368</b>, which are similar to channels <b>363</b> and <b>364</b>, and connect the associated cover <b>366</b> to the free edges <b>132</b> and <b>134</b> of intermediate flanges <b>128</b> and <b>129</b>.

Exemplary alternative covers for columns <b>3</b> are illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 75-80</figref>. More specifically, a rectangular column cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 75</figref>, wherein previously described arcuate covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> are replaced by a pair of U-shaped covers <b>370</b>, having inwardly turned free edges <b>371</b> which engage the hooks <b>40</b> on external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> in a snap-lock fashion. The center or web portion <b>372</b> of each cover <b>370</b> is substantially flat, and extends adjacent to the free edges of associated core web <b>29</b>, such that the exterior of column <b>3</b> assumes a substantially rectangular lateral cross-sectional shape. A large square column cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 76</figref>, wherein arcuate column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> are replaced by a pair of U-shaped covers <b>374</b>, which are substantially identical in shape to previously described rectangular covers <b>370</b>, except that the side flanges <b>375</b> are enlarged, such that the web <b>376</b> of each cover <b>374</b> is spaced apart from the free edge of associated core flange <b>29</b>, and the exterior of column <b>3</b> assumes a substantial square lateral cross section configuration.

A small square column cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 77</figref>, wherein the external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> are attached to flanges <b>28</b> of core weldment <b>21</b>, so as to define a more compact column construction. The arcuate covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> are replaced by a pair of generally U-shaped covers <b>378</b>, having one side <b>379</b> thereof attached to the side of the associated one of raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b>. The opposite side <b>380</b> of each cover <b>378</b> is formed to define a Z-shaped channel, with its free edge abutting the free edge of associated core weldment flange <b>26</b> to enclose internal powerways <b>58</b> and <b>59</b>. The center portion or web <b>382</b> of each cover <b>378</b> is substantially planar, and is positioned immediately adjacent to the exterior surface of associated core weldment flange <b>26</b>, such that the exterior of column <b>3</b> assumes a substantially square lateral cross-sectional shape.

A large diamond or triangle column cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 78</figref>, wherein arcuate covers <b>45</b> and <b>46</b> are replaced by a pair of V-shaped covers <b>410</b>, having inwardly turned free edges <b>411</b> which engaged the hooks <b>40</b> on external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> in a snap-lock fashion. The two sides or faces <b>412</b> of each cover <b>410</b> are substantially flat, and are mutually oriented at an acute angle along their common edge. The outer edges of V-shaped covers <b>410</b> extend diametrically outwardly from core weldment <b>21</b> along a plane oriented parallel with core weldment flanges <b>29</b>, and are generally in-line with the axial center of weldment tube <b>31</b>, such that the exterior of column <b>3</b> assumes a substantially triangular lateral cross-sectional shape.

A small diamond or triangle column cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 79</figref>, wherein the external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> are attached to flanges <b>28</b> of associated core weldment <b>21</b>, in a manner similar to the small square column cover option illustrated in FIG. <b>77</b>. The arcuate covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b> are replaced by a pair of generally V-shaped covers <b>414</b>, each having one side edge <b>415</b> thereof attached to the side of an associated one of raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b>. The opposite side <b>416</b> of each cover <b>414</b> is formed to define a generally Z-shaped channel, with its free edge abutting the free edge of associated core weldment flange <b>26</b> to enclose internal powerways <b>58</b> and <b>59</b>. The opposite sides or faces <b>417</b> of each cover <b>414</b> are substantially planar, and are mutually oriented at an acute angle along their common edge. The outer edges of V-shaped covers <b>414</b> extend diametrically outwardly from core weldment <b>21</b> along a plane oriented substantially perpendicular to core weldment flanges <b>29</b>, and are generally parallel with the axial center line of weldment tube <b>31</b>, such that the exterior of column <b>3</b> assumes a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape, which is smaller than the triangular shape of a column <b>3</b> formed by column covers <b>410</b>.

A small circle column cover option is illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 80</figref>, wherein external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b> are attached to the flanges <b>28</b> of an associated core weldment <b>21</b> in a manner similar to the small square column cover option illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 77. A</figref> pair of arcuate covers <b>384</b> are provided to replace previously described arcuate covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b>, wherein one free edge <b>385</b> of each cover <b>384</b> is fastened to the sidewall of associated one of the external raceways <b>37</b> and <b>38</b>. The opposite side edge <b>386</b> of each cover <b>384</b> is formed upwardly into a Z-shaped configuration, wherein the free edge mates with the free edge of core weldment flange <b>26</b>, such that the exterior of column <b>3</b> assumes a substantially circular lateral cross-sectional shape that is smaller than that associated with column covers <b>44</b> and <b>45</b>.

The reference numeral <b>1</b><i>a </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 81 and 82</figref>) generally designates another embodiment of the present invention, having an octagon-shaped overhead framework <b>4</b><i>a</i>. Since furniture system <b>1</b><i>a </i>is similar to the previously described furniture system <b>1</b>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-80</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 81 and 82</figref> respectively are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “a” in the numerals of the latter. In furniture system <b>1</b><i>a</i>, the perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> have a straight or linear shape, unlike the arcuate shape of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>. Eight perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>a </i>are interconnected end-to-end into a closed polygon having a top plan shape in the form of a regular octagon.

Cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>a </i>are similar to previously described cross beam segments <b>116</b>, except that they are somewhat shorter in length and have a thickness the same as perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>a</i>, with a total of twelve cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>a </i>provided, instead of the four cross beam segments <b>116</b> associated with furniture system <b>1</b>. Four X-connectors <b>222</b><i>a </i>interconnect the interior ends of each of the twelve cross beam segments <b>115</b><i>a </i>in the form of a checkerboard gridwork. Also, the T-connectors <b>221</b> of furniture system <b>1</b> are replaced by two different styles of Y-connectors <b>390</b> and <b>391</b> to accommodate for the different angles formed between perimeter segments <b>115</b><i>a </i>and cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>a</i>. Y-connectors <b>390</b> and <b>391</b> are both otherwise substantially identical in construction to T-connector <b>221</b>. Because of the octagonal shape of overhead framework <b>4</b>, and the grid shape of the interconnected cross beams <b>116</b><i>a</i>, the interior of furniture system <b>1</b><i>a </i>may be divided into a plurality of smaller sub-group workspaces of different sizes and shapes by rearrangement of panels <b>6</b> on overhead framework <b>4</b>, as best illustrated in FIG. <b>82</b>.

The reference numeral <b>1</b><i>b </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 83</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a serpentine style overhead framework <b>4</b><i>b</i>. Since furniture arrangement <b>1</b><i>b </i>is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-80</figref> and <b>81</b>-<b>82</b>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 83</figref> respectively are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “b” in the numerals of the latter. Furniture system <b>1</b><i>b </i>is designed generally for display purposes, and includes a serpentine shaped overhead framework <b>4</b><i>b</i>, comprising a plurality of curvilinear beam segments <b>115</b><i>b</i>, which are interconnected in an end-to-end fashion similar to furniture system <b>1</b>, but are reversed in direction at every other beam segment <b>3</b><i>b</i>, such that furniture system <b>1</b><i>b </i>assumes a lazy “S” or serpentine top plan shape. Previously described in-line connectors <b>220</b><i>b </i>may be used at every other junction of beam segment <b>115</b><i>b </i>and column <b>3</b><i>b</i>, however, a special reverse curve connector <b>293</b> is required at the remaining, alternate beam joints to accommodate for the reversal in direction between adjacent beam segments <b>115</b><i>b</i>. Reverse curve connector <b>393</b> is otherwise substantially identical to in-line connector <b>220</b><i>b. </i>

It is to be understood that the present invention contemplates use solely as an information display, apart from any partitioning or space dividing function. For instance, the furniture system <b>1</b><i>b </i>illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 83</figref> is designed primarily as an information display system to be used with display panels <b>315</b>, and is arranged in office space <b>2</b><i>b </i>in a manner which renders any partitioning function rather minimal. The extent to which any given furniture system <b>1</b> performs partitioning and/or display function can be easily selected by the space author in determining the size, shape and position of the furniture system within a given floor space, and can also be varied by the space user in selecting the type of panels <b>6</b> to be hung on overhead framework <b>4</b>, and the precise location at which the panels <b>6</b> are to be hung.

The furniture systems <b>1</b><i>c</i>-<b>1</b><i>j </i>described hereinafter are configured in a manner that is capable of providing some degree of both partitioning and display functions, if the space user chooses to use the same.

The reference numeral <b>1</b><i>c </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 84</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a ring-shaped overhead framework <b>4</b><i>c</i>. Since furniture system <b>1</b><i>c </i>is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>b</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-80</figref>, <b>81</b>-<b>83</b> and <b>84</b> respectively are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “c” in the numerals of the latter. The overhead framework <b>4</b><i>c </i>of furniture system <b>1</b><i>c </i>is substantially identical to the overhead framework <b>4</b> of furniture system <b>1</b>, except that it does not have any cross beam segments <b>116</b>. Hence, only in-line connectors <b>221</b><i>c </i>are required to interconnect the perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>c </i>of furniture system <b>1</b><i>c</i>. In the illustrated example, cables <b>395</b> are provided to interconnect oppositely positioned columns <b>3</b><i>c </i>to provide additional stability to the furniture system <b>1</b><i>c</i>. Cables <b>395</b> may be constructed of sufficient rigidity that at least certain types of panels <b>6</b> could be hung thereon.

The reference numeral <b>1</b><i>d </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 85</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having an X-shaped overhead framework <b>4</b><i>d</i>. Since furniture system <b>1</b><i>d </i>is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>c</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-84</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 85</figref>, respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “d” in the numerals of the latter. Furniture system <b>1</b><i>d </i>is similar to the circular framework furniture system <b>1</b>, except that it does not include any perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, but rather includes only four cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>d</i>, interconnected at their interior ends by an X-connector <b>222</b><i>d</i>. Four columns <b>3</b><i>d </i>are provided to support the exterior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>d</i>. A special end connector <b>397</b> is provided to interconnect the exterior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>d </i>with associated columns <b>3</b><i>d</i>. End connector <b>397</b> is substantially identical to T-connector <b>221</b>, except that it has only a single set of fletch plates (not shown) oriented toward the center of furniture system <b>1</b><i>d</i>.

The reference numeral <b>1</b>e (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 86</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a Y-shaped overhead framework <b>4</b><i>e</i>. Since furniture system <b>1</b>e is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>d</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-85</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 86</figref>, respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “e” in the numerals of the latter. Furniture system <b>1</b>e is substantially similar to furniture system <b>1</b><i>d</i>, except that it has only three cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>e</i>, which are arranged in a “Y” top plan configuration. A special center connector <b>399</b> interconnects the interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>e</i>. Center connector <b>399</b> is substantially similar to X-connector <b>222</b>, except that it includes only three sets of fletch plates (not shown) which are oriented in a “Y” configuration. End connectors <b>397</b><i>e </i>are used to attach the exterior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>e </i>to three associated columns <b>3</b><i>e</i>.

The reference numeral if (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 87</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a dual-square overhead framework <b>4</b><i>f</i>. Since furniture system if is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>e</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-86</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 87</figref>, respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “f” in the numerals of the latter. The illustrated overhead framework <b>4</b><i>f </i>includes four perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>f</i>, and four cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>f </i>which are interconnected at their interior ends by an X-connector <b>222</b><i>f</i>. The exterior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>f </i>are connected to four associated columns <b>3</b><i>f </i>by a special cross beam right angle connector <b>401</b>. Cross beam right angle connector <b>401</b> is substantially identical to T-connector <b>221</b>, except that it includes only one set of perimeter beam fletch plates (not shown). A perimeter beam right angle connector <b>402</b> is also provided to interconnect the ends of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>f </i>with the remaining two columns <b>3</b><i>f</i>. Perimeter beam right angle <b>402</b> is substantially identical to in-line connector <b>220</b> except that the fletch plates (not shown) are oriented in a mutually perpendicular relationship.

The reference numeral <b>1</b>g generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a triangle-shaped overhead framework <b>4</b><i>g</i>. Since furniture system <b>4</b><i>g </i>is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>f</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-82</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 88</figref>, respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “g” in the numerals of the latter. The overhead framework <b>4</b><i>g </i>associated with furniture system <b>1</b><i>g </i>has no cross beam segments <b>116</b>, and only three perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>g</i>. The opposite ends of perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>g </i>are connected with associated columns <b>3</b><i>g </i>by Y-connectors <b>390</b><i>g </i>and <b>391</b><i>g</i>.

The reference numeral <b>1</b><i>h </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 89</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a partially arcuate overhead framework <b>4</b><i>h</i>. Since furniture system <b>1</b><i>h </i>is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>g</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-88</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 89</figref>, respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “h” in the numerals of the latter. Furniture system <b>1</b><i>h </i>is quite similar to furniture system <b>1</b>, except that two adjacent perimeter beam segments <b>115</b> and their associated column <b>3</b> are removed to form a pie-shaped area exterior of furniture system <b>1</b><i>h. </i>

Further, furniture system <b>1</b><i>h </i>has only three cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>h</i>, unlike the four cross beam segments <b>116</b> incorporated into furniture system <b>1</b>. The interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>h </i>are interconnected by a center Y-connector <b>390</b><i>h</i>. The exterior end of the middle cross beam segment <b>116</b><i>h </i>is connected with associated column <b>3</b><i>h </i>by a T-connector <b>221</b><i>h</i>, while the exterior ends of the remaining two cross beam segments <b>116</b> are connected with associated columns <b>3</b><i>h </i>by special end connectors <b>407</b>. End connectors <b>407</b> are substantially identical to T-connectors <b>221</b>, except that one set of perimeter fletch plates (not shown) is removed.

The reference numeral <b>1</b><i>h </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 90</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a dual-triangle overhead framework <b>4</b><i>c</i>. Since furniture system <b>1</b><i>i </i>is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>h</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-89</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 90</figref>, respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “i” in the numerals of the latter. Furniture system <b>1</b><i>i </i>includes six straight perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>i</i>, and four cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>i</i>. The interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>i </i>are interconnected by an X-connector <b>222</b><i>i</i>. The exterior ends of the two, longer cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>i </i>are connected with associated columns <b>3</b><i>i </i>by perimeter T-connectors <b>402</b><i>i</i>, while the exterior ends of the remaining two cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>i </i>are interconnected with associated columns <b>3</b><i>i </i>by Y-connectors <b>390</b><i>i </i>and <b>391</b><i>i</i>. The outermost columns <b>3</b><i>i </i>are connected with a straight perimeter beam segment <b>115</b><i>i </i>by perimeter Y-connectors <b>390</b><i>i </i>and <b>391</b><i>i</i>, so that overhead framework <b>4</b><i>i </i>assumes a partial octagon shape. The free ends of outboard perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>i </i>are connected to associated columns <b>3</b><i>i </i>by end connectors <b>397</b><i>i</i>.

The reference numeral <b>1</b><i>j </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 91</figref>) generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having a combination overhead framework <b>4</b><i>j</i>. Since furniture system <b>1</b><i>j </i>is similar to the previously described furniture systems <b>1</b> and <b>1</b><i>a</i>-<b>1</b><i>i</i>, similar parts appearing in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-90</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 91</figref>, respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference numeral, except for the suffix “j” in the numerals of the latter. Furniture system <b>1</b><i>j </i>generally comprises two rectangularly shaped frameworks <b>420</b> and <b>421</b>, which are interconnected at a common column <b>3</b><i>j</i>′. Overhead framework <b>420</b> is supported by a total of six columns <b>3</b><i>j</i>, including the common column <b>3</b><i>j</i>′, and includes six straight perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>j</i>, and four cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>j</i>. The interior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b> are interconnected by an X-connector <b>222</b><i>j</i>, which is substantially identical to X-connector <b>222</b>, except that the legs are oriented at a slightly different included angle to accommodate the rectangular shape of overhead framework <b>420</b>. The exterior ends of cross beam segments <b>116</b><i>j </i>are connected with associated columns <b>3</b><i>j </i>by V-connectors <b>422</b>, which are substantially identical to T-connectors <b>221</b>, except for the mutual orientation of the three sets of fletch plates (not shown). A series of horizontal partition panels <b>423</b> are mounted between the front two interiormost columns <b>3</b><i>j</i>, and have their side edges captured within the external grooves <b>62</b> of the associated columns <b>3</b><i>j</i>. Partition panels <b>423</b> are stacked vertically on one another, and extend generally from the floor to the overhead framework <b>420</b>.

Overhead framework <b>421</b> also has a substantially rectangular plan shape, and is supported by four columns <b>3</b><i>j </i>at each of the four corners thereof. Overhead framework <b>421</b> includes a rigid trellis <b>423</b>, which incorporates a series of ceiling beams that extend between opposite perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>j </i>in a generally parallel and spaced apart fashion to partially partition the underlying workspace from the overhead portion of the building. A pair of straight, outboard perimeter beam segments <b>115</b><i>j </i>extend outwardly from the opposite front corners of overhead framework <b>421</b>, and horizontal partition panels <b>423</b> are mounted between all three pairs of front columns <b>3</b><i>j </i>to further partition the associated space.

As is apparent from the foregoing description, the size and shape of furniture system <b>1</b> can be varied greatly to complement and/or cooperate with the architectural configuration of the room in which the furniture system is to be erected and used. The modular or kit nature of furniture system <b>1</b> requires relatively few different parts, such as columns <b>3</b>, beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b>, and connectors <b>117</b>, to design and construct virtually any type or style of system desired. This kit type of construction not only minimizes manufacturing and distribution costs, but also results in substantial savings to the end user. Since group work projects are typically temporary, the need for the associated support furnishings is also normally of limited duration. When a specific furniture system <b>1</b> is no longer required to support its associated authoring group, it may be readily disassembled and stored for future uses. Because of its modular construction, the disassembled furniture parts can be used at some future date to construct a similar style furniture unit, or can be used with other parts to construct a completely different style of furniture system <b>1</b>. The user simply creates an inventory of modular furniture pieces, which can be used repeatedly in different furniture system layouts to achieve both maximum cost efficiency and support effectiveness.

In one contemplated example of furniture system <b>1</b>, even after the selected system has been designed and erected at a selected location, should the needs of the users change, such as to require more group meeting space, more break-out space, more display capability, smaller individual workspaces, etc., the selected furniture system <b>1</b> can be readily altered to accommodate for these new needs. In another example of furniture system <b>1</b>, the designer may elect to arrange the modular pieces in a manner which complements or imitates the shape of the space in which the furniture system is to be used. Hence, an effective custom furniture system can be readily provided for even irregularly shaped building spaces, or other such spaces that are not readily adapted for use with conventional

Furniture system <b>1</b> is extremely dynamic, and is particularly adapted to efficiently and effectively support group work activities in open plans and the like. As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, furniture system <b>1</b> can perform a partitioning function by hanging panels <b>6</b> about at least selected portions of the perimeter beam segments <b>115</b>, so as to separate the interior of furniture system <b>1</b> from the remainder of the open office space <b>2</b>. In this configuration, the space defined by furniture system <b>1</b> is particularly adapted to support group communications and activities, such as lectures and team meetings. When the problem solving team needs to break out into smaller sub-groups, or even individual workers for further, more specific activities, the existing panels <b>6</b> can be easily reconfigured, and/or additional panels <b>6</b> can be readily hung on beam segments <b>115</b> and <b>116</b> to sub-partition the space within furniture system <b>1</b>, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, for breakout communications and activities. When the team is not meeting, all panels <b>6</b> may be removed from overhead framework <b>4</b> to permit free movement throughout the floor space occupied by furniture system <b>1</b>. Mobile carts <b>430</b> greatly facilitate the configuration and reconfiguration of panels <b>6</b> on overhead framework <b>4</b>, and can also serve as an independent partition and/or display. Display panels <b>315</b> may also be hung from overhead framework <b>4</b> to assist in group communications. Task lighting <b>159</b> may be either reoriented or removed bodily from overhead framework <b>4</b> and reattached at new locations to provide adequate lighting for both group and/or breakout activities.

Since many of the accessories associated with furniture system <b>1</b> can be user manipulated and/or adjusted, such as partition panels <b>320</b>, display panels <b>316</b>, lighting fixtures <b>159</b>, mobile carts <b>430</b>, as well as any associated furniture, the users gain a sense of space ownership by virtue of their ability to personalize the space being used. The users can create their own office environment by simply selecting and incorporating the furniture accessories desired. The number and location of panels <b>6</b> is adjusted to achieve that precise balance of worker privacy and worker interaction as the specific occasion warrants, and/or is desired. The office environment so created is not static, but rather can be readily altered by either the space author to meet changing needs, or by a different user to accommodate new tasks and/or likings. This flexibility promotes worker creativity and encourages teamwork and collaboration, which in turn enhances group performance.

Furniture system <b>1</b> may be used in a wide variety of different ways, and is particularly adapted for conferencing, brainstorming, training, decision making, and other similar activities. The flexibility of furniture system <b>1</b> is beneficial not only for these types of planned group functions, but also supports spontaneous or ad-hoc interaction among colleagues.

The open configuration of overhead framework <b>4</b> prevents interference with other building facilities, such as building lighting, fire detection and suppression equipment, HVAC, etc. Appliances, such as telephones, computers, copiers, coffee makers, and other similar equipment can be plugged into the power and communication taps on columns <b>3</b>, such that furniture system <b>1</b> is completely self-sufficient, and is versatile and, adaptable to tailor the same to the specific needs of the occasion.

In the foregoing description, it will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the concepts disclosed herein. Such modifications are to be considered as included in the following claims, unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.